Alert: Heavy Rain Warning Issued for Next 3 Hours in Gujarat

The Gujarat weather authorities have issued a nowcast warning for the next three hours, warning of heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds and lightning in many parts of the state. The warning, issued at 1.00 pm on July 23, is valid for the next three hours. Several districts, including Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot, Anand and Bharuch, have been placed under a red warning, where heavy rainfall of more than 15 mm per hour and wind speeds of 41–61 km/h are likely.

Several Districts Under Red, Orange and Yellow Warnings

According to the weather bulletin, heavy rain is expected in Ahmedabad, Mahesana, Patan, Surendranagar, Botad, Rajkot, Morbi, Kheda, Anand, Vadodara and Bharuch. Moderate rainfall with thunderstorms is likely in Surat, Tapi, Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Gandhinagar, Aravalli, Mahisagar, Dahod, Panchmahal, Chhota Udepur, Narmada, Navsari, Valsad, Bhavnagar, Amreli, Gir Somnath, Junagadh and Kutch. Light rain is expected in Devbhumi Dwarka, Jamnagar and Porbandar.

• Heavy rain likely in 11 districts.
• Thunderstorms and lightning expected in many areas.
• Strong winds of 41–61 km/h may occur.
• Warning is valid for the next three hours.

People Advised to Stay Safe and Avoid Unnecessary Travel

Officials said heavy rainfall could lead to waterlogging, flooding in low-lying areas, traffic congestion and overflowing drains. There is also a risk of falling trees, branches and advertising hoardings due to strong winds. Lightning may pose a danger in affected areas, while old and weak buildings could also be at risk. Temporary disruption to transport and other public services is also possible if heavy rain continues.

Safety Advisory:

• Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain.
• Stay away from waterlogged roads, rivers and low-lying areas.
• Do not stand under trees or near electric poles during thunderstorms.
• Follow weather updates and traffic advisories issued by the authorities.
• Move to a safe place if strong winds or lightning occur.

The authorities have urged residents to remain alert, take necessary precautions and follow official instructions until the weather improves. Emergency services are also expected to monitor the situation closely in districts under the highest warning level.