Relentless rain brushed away parts of Gujarat, prompting the Indian Meteorological Department to issue a red alert for several districts of the state.
According to the department, weather conditions are likely to remain unstable in many regions, with some areas likely to experience intense rain spells, lightning activity and strong winds. The State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) reported that for the 24-hour period ending at 6:00 AM on August 1, heavy downpours triggered waterlogging across multiple districts.
Places Under Red Alert
The IMD has issued a red alert for the following regions, including Ahmedabad, Anand, Aravalli, Bharuch, Bhavnagar, Botad, Gandhinagar, Kachchh, Kheda, Mahesana, Morbi, Patan, Sabarkantha, Surendranagar and Vadodara.
Orange Alert Issued In Several Regions
In Gujarat, Amreli, Banaskantha, Chhota Udepur, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Dahod, Daman, Dangs, Devbhoomi Dwarka, Diu, Gir Somnath, Jamnagar, Junagadh, Mahisagar, Narmada, Navsari, Panchmahal, Porbandar, Rajkot, Surat, Tapi and Valsad are under the orange alert.
Weather alerts use yellow, orange, and red to show how dangerous a storm or extreme weather condition is. Yellow means be aware; orange warns you to be prepared, while red refers to extreme situations and taking action.
Heavy Rain Alert
Gujarat is likely to witness intense monsoon activity, with heavy rainfall predicted in several districts. Coastal and low-lying areas may face water accumulation due to continuous showers. The IMD has advised residents to remain alert, especially in areas vulnerable to flooding. Cities including Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot and other parts of the state may experience changing weather conditions throughout the day.
Ambika Taluka in Surat District recorded the highest rainfall in the state, receiving a staggering 24.06 inches (611 mm) in a single day.
With heavy rainfall causing waterlogging in low-lying residential areas, local administrations across affected districts have placed emergency response teams on high alert to monitor water levels in rivers and reservoirs and carry out relief operations where necessary.