The start of this week witnessed a surge in maximum temperatures across Gujarat including Rajkot, Ahmedabad, Surat, Gandhinagar and other districts of the state.

“Heat wave conditions likely to prevail in Banaskantha, Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Surat, Surendranagar, Rajkot, Porbandar, Junagadh, Morbi, Amreli, Gir-Somnath, Kutch and Diu till March 13,” said Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday.

The IMD predicted high temperature, increased likelihood of heat illness symptoms in people who are either exposed to sun for a prolonged period or doing heavy work. High health concern for vulnerable people e.g. infants, elderly, people with chronic diseases.

On Monday, heatwave conditions prevailed in Rajkot with 40.7°C, in Surat (41.8°C), Surendranagar, and Bhuj (42°C).

Ahmedabad witnessed a maximum temperature of 40.4°C, a total of 4.5°C more than normal on Monday.

IMD's suggestions:

(a) Avoid heat exposure – keep cool. Avoid dehydration.

(b) Drink sufficient water – even if not thirsty.

(c) Use ORS, homemade drinks like lassi, rice water, lemon water, buttermilk, etc. to keep yourself hydrated.