Yellow Alert in 8 Districts as Gujarat Sizzles
A severe heatwave has gripped Gujarat, pushing temperatures above 44°C in several districts, including Ahmedabad, and prompting authorities to issue a yellow alert.
The highest temperature was recorded at Kandla Airport at 45.2°C, followed closely by Ahmedabad at 44.8°C, marking one of the hottest days of the season. The extreme heat coincided with local body election voting, reportedly affecting turnout and leading to at least three suspected heat-related deaths.
According to the Meteorological Department, heatwave conditions are currently active across multiple districts, including Kutch, Patan, Morbi, Surendranagar, Ahmedabad, Botad, Rajkot, and Porbandar.
The weather is expected to remain extremely hot for the next three days, with no significant drop in temperature. After this period, a slight decrease of 2–3°C may occur, but temperatures are still likely to remain between 41°C and 45°C.
Experts attribute the ongoing heat to prevailing west to north-westerly winds and weak atmospheric systems, including a fading cyclonic circulation near the Rajasthan-Pakistan border. Coastal areas are also experiencing “hot and humid” conditions, making the weather more uncomfortable.
Authorities have advised residents to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
With May approaching—typically the hottest month in Gujarat—there is a growing possibility that temperatures could rise further, potentially nearing or surpassing historical highs recorded in 2016, when temperatures crossed 48°C.
