Meteorological Department Warns of Intense Weather Activity Across Saurashtra and South Gujarat
Gujarat, India – October 26, 2025:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert in Saurashtra, warning of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and gusty winds over the next few days. The alert primarily covers Gir Somnath, Amreli, Bhavnagar, and Diu, where torrential rain and strong winds have already started disrupting normal life.
Following Diwali celebrations, a dramatic shift in weather conditions has been observed across Gujarat. As per the IMD, a deep depression formed over the Arabian Sea is responsible for the widespread unseasonal rainfall. The system is likely to continue influencing Gujarat’s climate for at least another week, bringing heavy downpours, thunderstorms, and high-velocity winds to several districts.
Heavy Rainfall Predicted in Coastal Gujarat
The IMD bulletin suggests that from October 26 to November 2, as many as 24 districts of Gujarat may experience moderate to extremely heavy rainfall. Coastal regions such as Gir Somnath, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Junagadh, and Diu are expected to be the most affected.
The Red Alert in Saurashtra indicates an immediate threat of severe weather. Meteorologists have also warned that wind speeds could reach up to 40 km/h, particularly along the coastal belts. Residents and fishermen have been advised to remain cautious and avoid venturing into the sea.
Meanwhile, Orange Alerts have been issued in Junagadh, Botad, Rajkot, Ahmedabad, Anand, Panchmahal, Dahod, Chhota Udepur, Bharuch, Surat, Narmada, Vadodara, Navsari, and Valsad, signifying a high likelihood of heavy rain.
Additionally, Yellow Alerts have been declared in Porbandar, Dwarka, Jamnagar, Surendranagar, Kheda, Gandhinagar, Aravalli, Mahisagar, Dang, and Tapi, where scattered rainfall is expected.
Rainfall Begins in Diu, Gir Somnath, and Amreli
Late-night showers began drenching several regions, including Diu and the Gir forest belt covering Una, Gir Gadhada, and Talala. Continuous rain in these areas has led to waterlogging and slowed local transport.
In Amreli, heavy downpours have raised serious concerns among farmers as large tracts of ready-to-harvest crops have become waterlogged. Similar conditions have been observed in Vadodara, where intermittent rain has persisted since early morning.
According to IMD officials, the depression over the Arabian Sea is expected to maintain its intensity for at least 4 to 6 more days, bringing light to heavy rainfall across Gujarat.
The impact will be most visible in coastal districts, where strong winds and turbulent sea conditions are likely.
Fishermen Warned to Stay Ashore
Due to rough sea conditions, authorities have hoisted Signal No. 3 at several ports, including Mangrol, and have strictly advised fishermen not to venture into the Arabian Sea. The strong offshore winds pose a significant danger to small fishing boats.
Coastal administrations in Porbandar, Veraval, and Diu have been put on high alert. Disaster response teams are on standby, and local administrations are monitoring sea levels and rainfall data closely.
The government has also asked citizens to avoid unnecessary travel near the coastline during the alert period.
District-Wise Forecast for the Coming Days
October 27 (Yellow Alert)
- Ahmedabad
- Gandhinagar
- Mehsana
- Sabarkantha
- Aravalli
- Surendranagar
- Kheda
- Anand
- Panchmahal
- Bharuch
- Surat
- Navsari
- Valsad
- Gir Somnath
- Junagadh
- Rajkot
- Porbandar
- Bhavnagar
- Amreli
October 28 (Yellow Alert)
- Porbandar
- Junagadh
- Gir Somnath
- Bharuch
- Surat
- Navsari
- Valsad
These areas will likely experience moderate to heavy rain with occasional thunder and strong winds, especially during nighttime hours.
Farmers Face Crop Damage as Rains Drench Fields
The unseasonal rain has come as a major setback for Gujarat’s farming community. Farmers in Amreli, Gir Somnath, and Junagadh have reported that their ready-to-harvest crops, including groundnut, cotton, and pulses, have been soaked due to continuous rainfall.
“Just when we were preparing for the harvest, heavy rains started again. The groundnuts are now wet and may rot if the rain doesn’t stop soon,” said a farmer from Talala in Gir Somnath district.
Agricultural experts fear that persistent rainfall could reduce crop yields and affect rural incomes, especially in regions dependent on monsoon timing. Local authorities have advised farmers to take preventive measures and drain standing water from fields wherever possible.
Urban Areas Also Affected by Waterlogging
In addition to rural damage, cities like Rajkot, Surat, and Ahmedabad witnessed water accumulation on several roads, causing traffic disruptions. Drainage systems in low-lying areas struggled to cope with the sudden downpour.
Social media has been flooded with images of waterlogged streets, overflowing drains, and stranded vehicles, as Gujarat residents brace themselves for more rain in the coming days.
Emergency helplines have been activated in key districts to assist citizens facing flood-related issues.
Why Saurashtra is Facing This Red Alert
Meteorologists explain that the current weather pattern is linked to a deep depression over the east-central Arabian Sea, which is pulling moisture inland and creating favorable conditions for heavy rain over western India.
This system, combined with high sea-surface temperatures and southwesterly winds, is fueling intense convection over Gujarat’s coastline.
Saurashtra, known for its long coastline and open plains, is particularly vulnerable to such systems. Historically, the region faces extreme rainfall events during post-monsoon months, and this year’s episode is one of the most significant since 2019.
Government and Disaster Response Preparedness
The Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA) has activated emergency control rooms in all alert districts.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been stationed in Gir Somnath, Amreli, and Bhavnagar to assist in rescue and relief operations if required.
Local administrations are coordinating with the Meteorological Department and the Fisheries Department to keep citizens informed through SMS alerts and local news channels.
Municipal corporations in major cities have been instructed to ensure proper drainage, electricity stability, and public safety.
Also read:Asiatic Lion Dies After Rescue in Mangrol Canal: A Tragic Incident Highlights Wildlife Challenges
Residents Urged to Stay Vigilant
Authorities have urged citizens in affected districts to remain alert and follow official advisories.
People living near riverbanks and coastal zones are particularly warned against venturing outdoors during heavy rainfall or stormy conditions. Schools in some areas of Gir Somnath and Amreli have been temporarily closed as a precautionary measure.
Residents are also advised to keep emergency kits ready, avoid flooded roads, and stay tuned to official weather updates through the IMD website and local news channels.
Impact on Daily Life and Travel
The ongoing rainfall has already affected daily commuting, train schedules, and local businesses. Several state highways between Amreli, Bhavnagar, and Junagadh have reported slow traffic movement due to waterlogging.
Authorities have deployed traffic police and road maintenance teams to manage the situation.
Tourist destinations such as Gir National Park and Diu beaches are witnessing lower footfall due to the bad weather. Tourists have been requested to postpone their travel plans until conditions improve.
Also read: Bhavnagar News: Army Jawan from Ladakh Seeks Help After Attack on Family, Alleges Police Negligence
Conclusion: A Week of Caution Ahead for Gujarat
The Red Alert in Saurashtra stands as a strong reminder of nature’s unpredictability. While rainfall may provide some relief to groundwater levels, the sudden intensity poses real challenges for farmers, fishermen, and daily life across Gujarat’s coastal districts.
With the Arabian Sea system expected to persist until early November, residents are urged to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel, and cooperate with local authorities.
The IMD continues to monitor the system closely and will update warnings as conditions evolve.
