The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for six districts in Gujarat, warning residents of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected to continue until June 1st. This early monsoon onset affects key regions including Saurashtra and northern Gujarat, with implications for daily life and safety. The forecast advises caution especially for farmers, fishermen, and local authorities in these areas.
5 Key Details of the Advisory
- The alert covers districts such as Junagadh, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Gir Somnath, Vadodara, and Chhota Udaipur, among others.
- Wind speeds between 40-60 km/h are expected, with thunderstorms posing risks through May 30 to June 1.
- An orange alert was issued on May 26 for Surendranagar, Botad, Rajkot, Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Mahisagar, Dahod, Panchmahal, Narmada, Tapi, Dangs, Navsari, and Valsad districts.
- Fishermen are strongly advised against venturing into the Arabian Sea due to hazardous sea conditions caused by a low-pressure system developing offshore.
- District control rooms across Gujarat are operational 24/7 to monitor evolving weather and coordinate emergency responses.
3 Reasons This Advisory Was Issued
- Early Monsoon Onset: The monsoon has arrived ahead of schedule, breaking rainfall records previously seen in neighbouring states, intensifying weather volatility in Gujarat.
- Low Pressure System: A persistent low-pressure area in the Arabian Sea is driving strong winds and heavy rain, impacting coastal and inland districts.
- Safety Concerns: The combination of thunderstorms, heavy precipitation, and gusty winds increases risks of flooding, property damage, and transportation disruption.
6 Steps Residents Should Take Now
- Stay Updated: Follow official updates from the Gujarat State Emergency Operations Centre and IMD bulletins.
- Avoid Sea Travel: Fishermen and coastal communities should heed warnings and avoid going into the sea until conditions improve.
- Secure Property: Protect loose items and reinforce vulnerable structures to withstand strong winds.
- Prepare Emergency Supplies: Keep essentials like clean water, food, medicines, and flashlights ready.
- Plan Travel Carefully: Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
- Report Emergencies: Contact local authorities promptly if assistance is needed.
4 Emergency Contacts in Gujarat
- Gujarat State Emergency Operations Centre: 108
- District Collector Offices: Contact numbers vary; check local government websites.
- Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA): +91-79-232-54100
- Local Police Control Rooms: Dial 100
3 Historical Weather Trends in Gujarat
Historically, Gujarat’s monsoon arrives between late June and early July, but recent years have seen variations, with early onsets in 2019 and 2021 causing flooding in Saurashtra and South Gujarat. Districts such as Surat, Navsari, and Valsad have faced repeated heavy rainfall events leading to agricultural damage and infrastructural challenges. The 2017 monsoon season was notably intense, with over 1,000 villages affected by floods, prompting the state government to enhance its disaster preparedness infrastructure.
For continuing updates, residents can refer to Heavy Rain Forecast for Gujarat Until June 29 and Heavy Rain Forecast for Gujarat Until July 1 to plan accordingly.
Next Steps:
- Check the IMD and Gujarat government websites for daily weather updates.
- Ensure your family and neighbours are informed about the alerts and safety measures.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy and prepare for potential disruptions caused by heavy rains.

