Yellow alert issued for October 25–27; Fishermen advised caution as wind speeds rise
Heavy Rain Forecast: Gujarat is expected to experience heavy rain over the next three days as a depression system becomes active over the east-central Arabian Sea, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). A yellow alert has been issued for several regions from October 25 to 27, warning of moderate to heavy rainfall across the state.
The weather department has also reported that signal number 1 (DC-1) has been raised along the Saurashtra coast, while LCS-3 has been issued for South Gujarat due to the developing depression. The IMD has urged fishermen to stay away from the sea as wind speeds are likely to increase significantly in the coming days.
Sudden Change in Weather Brings Heavy Showers and Cool Breezes
Amid the festive atmosphere of Diwali, the weather across parts of South Gujarat witnessed a dramatic shift on Thursday afternoon.
In Valsad district, the skies turned cloudy and heavy showers accompanied by strong winds swept through Vapi and surrounding towns, marking the arrival of the pre-winter season.
The sudden downpour created a cool and refreshing atmosphere, giving locals a brief respite from the lingering humidity. However, the rainfall has also triggered concerns among farmers, who fear possible crop damage during the crucial harvesting period.
According to the weather office, similar conditions are expected to continue in the coming days, bringing a mix of relief and anxiety among residents.
Heavy Rain Forecast Across 16 Districts
Dr. A.K. Das, Director of the India Meteorological Department, stated that as many as 16 districts are likely to witness light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms.
These include:
Porbandar, Rajkot, Junagadh, Gir Somnath, Amreli, Botad, Bhavnagar, Vadodara, Chhota Udepur, Bharuch, Narmada, Surat, Tapi, Navsari, Valsad, Dang, Daman, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
The IMD’s latest heavy rain forecast indicates that coastal and southern regions of Gujarat will experience the heaviest rainfall due to the active depression over the Arabian Sea. The situation is being closely monitored as cloud formations continue to move inland, increasing chances of widespread rain.
Rain Expected in Ahmedabad and Surrounding Districts
On October 25, the rain belt is expected to expand, covering central and northern Gujarat.
According to IMD projections, Morbi, Surendranagar, Jamnagar, Devbhoomi Dwarka, Porbandar, Junagadh, Rajkot, Gir Somnath, Diu, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Botad, Vadodara, Chhota Udepur, Bharuch, Narmada, Surat, Tapi, Navsari, Dang, Valsad, Daman, and Dadra Nagar Haveli will likely receive light to moderate rainfall.
Meanwhile, Ahmedabad, Anand, Kheda, Panchmahal, Mahisagar, Dahod, and Kutch may see scattered rainfall during this period.
The IMD has also advised local authorities to stay alert for possible waterlogging and traffic disruptions in low-lying areas.
Another Round of Unseasonal Showers Predicted
Weather expert Paresh Goswami has predicted another round of unseasonal rainfall (Mavtha) for Gujarat, expected to begin around October 25 and continue till November 2, 2025.
According to him, several regions across the state may experience light to moderate unseasonal rain during this period.
He further warned that wind speeds may rise above normal levels, particularly along the coastal belt, as the Arabian Sea system strengthens. Farmers have been advised to take precautionary measures to protect standing crops, especially cotton and groundnut, which are currently in the harvesting stage.
Relief from Heat, But Concerns for Farmers
The spell of heavy rain has brought much-needed relief from the recent spell of dry and humid weather. Residents in cities such as Rajkot, Valsad, and Surat have welcomed the cooler air and cloudy skies. The rain has helped lower temperatures by 3–4°C, making evenings notably pleasant.
However, for the farming community, the timing of the rain has created unease. Farmers across Saurashtra and South Gujarat are worried that unexpected showers may damage harvested crops and affect storage and transport. In many rural regions, farmers were seen covering grain stocks and securing storage sheds in anticipation of further rain.
Agricultural experts have urged the state government to monitor the situation closely and provide assistance to farmers in case of significant crop loss.
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Fishermen Warned as Sea Conditions Turn Rough
As the depression intensifies over the east-central Arabian Sea, the IMD has issued a marine warning advising fishermen not to venture into the sea until further notice.
Coastal districts including Porbandar, Veraval, and Dwarka have reported rough sea conditions, with waves rising higher than usual.
The port authorities have hoisted signal number 1 at several coastal stations, indicating the presence of rough weather and potential storm activity in the region.
Authorities have also urged small boat operators and coastal residents to remain alert and avoid unnecessary sea travel.
IMD’s Seven-Day Outlook
According to the IMD’s extended seven-day forecast, scattered rainfall is expected across most parts of Gujarat during the coming week. The heaviest precipitation is likely between October 25 and 27, particularly over the southern and coastal regions.
Following this phase, light rain and cloudy conditions may persist till early November, marking an unseasonal weather shift. Meteorologists believe this may be part of a larger climatic pattern influenced by Arabian Sea moisture and post-monsoon wind circulation.
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Conclusion: State Braces for Unseasonal Showers
With the heavy rain forecast now in effect, Gujarat is bracing for another round of unseasonal showers driven by the Arabian Sea depression.
While the rainfall may offer temporary relief from the heat and replenish groundwater levels, it also poses challenges for farmers and fishermen across the state.
The IMD continues to monitor the system closely and will issue updates as conditions evolve. Residents are advised to stay informed, follow local weather advisories, and take all necessary precautions as the state experiences this unexpected turn in the season.
