Gujarat waits for monsoon as heatwave conditions continue to persist till June 20

The southwest monsoon is unlikely to reach Gujarat before June 20, with its advance towards the state slowing despite making progress in parts of neighbouring Maharashtra.

Meteorologists said dry and hot northwesterly winds prevailing in the upper atmosphere over Gujarat are obstructing moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea, delaying the northward movement of the monsoon.

Strong winds are expected to prevail across parts of the state in the coming days.

Wind speeds of 50-55 kmph are likely in the Saurashtra and Kutch regions, while most other parts of Gujarat may experience winds of 20-30 kmph.

Meanwhile, heat conditions are expected to persist in north and central Gujarat, with no significant change in temperatures.

The maximum temperature is likely to remain between 40 and 42 degrees Celsius in Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Mehsana, Patan, Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Kheda, Anand, Panchmahal, and Dahod districts.

Weather experts said no major rain-bearing system is likely to become active over the state during the next week.

However, isolated light showers or drizzle may occur in some coastal areas of South Gujarat and Saurashtra during the early morning hours.

The delayed advance of the monsoon is expected to keep most parts of the state under dry weather conditions over the coming days, they added.