Cloudy skies, unseasonal rains predicted in Gujarat in coming days

A fresh spell of unseasonal rain is set to impact parts of Gujarat, raising fresh concerns among farmers. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and the possibility of hail is likely in several districts of North Gujarat on February 18, 2026.

The changing weather pattern indicates that winter is gradually receding from the state. Temperatures are expected to rise in the coming days, bringing an early hint of summer. However, the current shift in weather is being driven by the simultaneous activation of three systems, a Western Disturbance, a cyclonic circulation, and a trough. The combined impact of these systems has created favourable conditions for scattered unseasonal rainfall.

The IMD has specifically forecast thunderstorms with possible hail at isolated places in districts such as Aravalli, Mahisagar, Dahod and Sabarkantha. Cloudy skies and gusty winds are also expected in these regions. Farmers, particularly in North Gujarat, are worried as standing crops and harvested produce lying in open fields could suffer damage due to sudden rain and hail.

Wind speeds from the north-west direction are also expected to intensify, especially in border and hilly districts, leading to a slight cooling sensation despite rising day temperatures. Reduced sunshine and overcast conditions are likely in several parts of the state.

On February 18, the minimum temperature in Ahmedabad is expected to hover around 19°C, while the maximum may reach 32°C. Other recorded minimum temperatures include Amreli at 15°C, Rajkot at 15.2°C, Naliya at 15.5°C, Bhuj at 17.2°C, Gandhinagar at 18.5°C, Surat at 19.2°C and Vadodara at 19.4°C.

With the forecast of unseasonal rains, farmers have been advised to take precautionary measures. Those who have already harvested crops and kept them in open fields should immediately move their produce to safer storage locations. If relocation is not possible, crops should be properly covered with plastic sheets or tarpaulin to prevent damage. 

The sudden change in weather has once again brought uncertainty for the farming community, which remains vulnerable to unseasonal rainfall during the crucial harvesting period.