Illustrative image of cyclone shakti at Gujarat

Gujarat is bound to receive very heavy rain in the next few days as the effects of Cyclone Shakti still persist in the state. IMD has issued a warning of light to moderate rains and thunderstorms in different districts of the state between October 7 and October 13. People are being advised to be alert and ready to experience heavy rains, strong winds and lightning in remote places.

The Tropical cyclone Shakti that formed in the Arabian Sea initially aroused concerns of dangerous weather in the Gujarat coastline. However, the storm has since developed into a depression, but the IMD has reported that the weather systems that accompany the storm can still cause excessive rainfall in some areas. The weakening of the cyclone has minimized the threat of serious impacts along the coastline, though inland areas still face intense showers and harsh weather conditions in the coming 48 hours.

Intense rainfall is likely to be experienced in the southern region of Gujarat, covered by Surat, Navsari, Valsad, Daman, and other areas. Likewise, the Saurashtra-Kutch area containing Jamnagar, Porbandar, Dwarka, Rajkot and Junagadh can get heavy showers and thunderstorms, as well. Isolated regions will experience winds of between 30 and 40 kilometres per hour with occasional lightning, hence it is pertinent that residents should exercise caution when travelling or performing outdoor duties.

In Gujarat, the authorities have been keeping a close eye on the matters, and they have encouraged the citizens to adhere to safety measures. Individuals in the low-lying or flood-prone areas are encouraged to be vigilant and to avoid unnecessary travelling during heavy rainfalls. There has been a standby of local administration and disaster management teams to deal with any emergencies, be it waterlogging, disruption of roads, or power cuts as a result of the storm.

It has been predicted that the rain shower will recur occasionally throughout the week, with a few regions experiencing periodic and intense rain showers, which might cause localized flooding. It is especially recommended that farmers and agricultural communities exercise the required precautions to keep crops and handle water resources during these times. Although the cyclone has weakened, its residual impact on the weather patterns is likely to keep the levels of humidity and discomfort high in the state.

With the state of Gujarat preparing to receive further rainfall, the inhabitants are advised to be aware of the weather warning and take every precaution to keep safe. The state government, with the IMD, is keeping a close observation of the situation to maintain the safety of the people and to extend assistance to the affected regions in time. Although the cyclone has subsided, its impact on the weather of the region highlights the need to be keen and prepared over the next few days.