First rains of season lash 150 talukas of Gujarat, Kutch awaits rainfall

The first widespread rains of the season brought relief from scorching temperatures across Gujarat, with 150 talukas in 26 districts recording rainfall during the 24-hour period ending 6 am on Monday, according to the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC).

The showers marked the onset of pre-monsoon rains in several parts of the state after weeks of intense heatwaves.

SEOC data showed that Gujarat recorded an average rainfall of 6.40 mm between 6 am on June 1 and 6 am on June 2. Despite the widespread rainfall, 118 talukas remained rain-free during the period.

Dhandhuka taluka in the Ahmedabad district recorded the highest rainfall in the state, at 95 mm (nearly 4 inches), followed by several other areas that witnessed moderate to heavy showers.

The east-central region of Gujarat recorded an average rainfall of 8.64 mm. Kheda taluka received 44 mm of rain, while neighbouring Matar recorded 40 mm. Dholera in Ahmedabad district received 23 mm of rainfall.

South Gujarat emerged as one of the wettest regions, recording an average rainfall of 9.9 mm. Umarpada in Surat district received 70 mm of rain, while Valod in Tapi district and Waghai in Dang district recorded 31 mm and 30 mm respectively.

North Gujarat recorded average rainfall of 6.95 mm. Mansa in Gandhinagar district received 29 mm of rain, while Talod in Sabarkantha district recorded 28 mm.

In Saurashtra, average rainfall stood at 2.80 mm. Lakhtar in Surendranagar district received 40 mm of rainfall, while Chuda recorded 39 mm.

However, Kutch remained the only district in the state yet to receive the season's first rainfall, with officials reporting zero precipitation during the period.

The rains brought a noticeable drop in temperatures across several districts and provided relief to residents affected by the prolonged spell of summer heat.

The India Meteorological Department has forecast further rainfall activity across parts of Gujarat over the coming days as conditions remain favourable for the advancement of the southwest monsoon.