Gujarat, already experiencing intense summer heat, is expected to witness an even harsher heatwave spell over the next few days, with the weather department forecasting extreme conditions across several parts of the state till May 14.
Temperatures have already crossed the 40°C mark in many cities and towns and are likely to rise further in North Gujarat, Central Gujarat and the Saurashtra-Kutch region, increasing discomfort for residents.
On Saturday, the weather station at Kandla Airport recorded the highest temperature in the state at a scorching 44.4°C.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that heatwave conditions are likely to continue till May 15 in districts including Banaskantha, Patan, Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Anand, Vadodara and Surat, along with Surendranagar, Rajkot, Porbandar, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Dwarka, Gir Somnath and Kutch.
Officials have cautioned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat may cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially among children, senior citizens and people working outdoors.
Residents have been advised to avoid venturing out during peak afternoon hours, drink plenty of water and take necessary precautions as Gujarat enters one of the most severe phases of the summer season.