Gujarat red alert: Five districts on high alert for extremely heavy rain
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in five districts of Gujarat for Saturday. The advisory covers Surendranagar, Botad, Bhavnagar, Rajkot and Ahmedabad, where thunderstorms and lightning are also expected.
According to the IMD, a red alert signifies the possibility of rainfall exceeding 204.5 mm in a single day. Such conditions can cause significant waterlogging, disrupt road and rail traffic, and pose risks to life and property. Residents in these areas have been urged to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel.
Taking preventive measures, district administrations have ordered all educational institutions to remain closed in 13 districts on Saturday. These include Surat, Ahmedabad, Anand, Kheda, Vadodara, Chhota Udepur, Bharuch, Tapi, Dang, Navsari, Bhavnagar, Rajkot and Botad.
The state has been experiencing active monsoon conditions over the past few weeks. By 10 am on July 31, Gujarat had recorded 55.97 per cent of the season’s total rainfall, according to the Met department. The southwest monsoon typically arrives in June and continues through September.
Between 6 am and 4 pm on Friday, authorities relocated 8,316 people from flood-prone areas across eight districts. Additionally, 11 people were rescued in Narmada and Chhota Udepur during the same period. These evacuations are part of the state’s disaster response plan to ensure the safety of communities living near rivers, dams and low-lying regions.
The relocation process is being carried out with the help of local officials, police and rescue teams. Those moved have been provided shelter and basic amenities at relief camps. District control rooms are coordinating efforts and monitoring the situation round the clock.
In view of the forecast, the Fisheries Department has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea off the Gujarat coast. The IMD has also warned of gusty winds associated with the heavy rain.
Officials said the administration is well-prepared with rescue boats, pumps and other equipment. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been kept on standby, though the deployment details were not specified in the advisory.
The public has been advised to stay away from damaged buildings, power lines and waterlogged areas. People living in vulnerable zones are being encouraged to move to safer locations voluntarily rather than wait for forced evacuation.
This latest round of heavy rain follows previous spells that affected parts of the state earlier in July. While the monsoon is crucial for agriculture in Gujarat, excess rainfall can lead to flooding and crop damage. The administration has urged farmers to take precautions and stay informed about weather updates.
Authorities have appealed to citizens to cooperate with evacuation orders and not to spread rumours. Emergency helpline numbers have been made available for any assistance required. The situation is being closely tracked, and further updates will be issued as the weather develops.
