Gujarat is experiencing an unseasonal heatwave, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue the state’s first yellow alert of the year. The alert, in effect for five days, warns of high temperatures and humidity in coastal areas.
IMD Gujarat Director Ashok Kumar Das stated that temperatures in coastal regions are 1.6°C to 5°C above normal. While the Western Disturbance is not solely responsible, other climatic factors, such as northerly to north-easterly wind direction, are contributing to the rise.
Ahmedabad’s Feb temperatures have remained 2°C to 2.4°C above normal
Kutch and South Gujarat are expected to experience discomfort due to heat and humidity. In Ahmedabad, February temperatures have been hovering 2°C to 2.4°C above normal levels. On Monday, the city recorded a high of 34.2°C and a low of 18.5°C.
The IMD forecast indicates no major change in maximum temperatures for the next 24 hours, but a 2-3°C rise is expected thereafter. Minimum temperatures will also increase by 2-3°C in the next two days.
Summer usually begins in March, coinciding with Holi, but this year has seen higher temperatures in January and February. Meteorologists warn of an early, intense summer, impacting agriculture, water resources, and daily life. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and avoid sun exposure, especially in the afternoon, as Gujarat braces for the ongoing heatwave.