Saurashtra-Kutch has been experiencing extreme heat even before the onset of peak summer, with temperatures soaring past 42°C, making life unbearable for residents. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning for the next 48 hours, advising people to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.
The rising temperatures in early March indicate an unusually hot season ahead. Surendranagar recorded Gujarat’s highest temperature at 42.8°C, followed closely by Bhuj at 42.4°C. Other cities also faced intense heat, with Junagadh at 41.8°C, Keshod at 41.9°C, Amreli at 41.6°C, Naliya at 41.4°C, Kandla at 41.2°C, and Porbandar at 41.0°C. Meanwhile, coastal regions experienced relatively lower temperatures, with Dwarka at 34.8°C, Okha at 32.0°C, Veraval at 33.0°C, and Diu at 36.0°C.
In Rajkot, the temperature peaked at 42.3°C. The morning humidity level stood at 37%, and the minimum temperature was recorded at 21.2°C. The heat felt more intense due to slow wind speeds of 4 km/h during the day. By evening, hot winds blew at 12 km/h, leading to deserted streets across the city.
As per agency report, the IMD has issued a heatwave alert for Rajkot, Porbandar, Junagadh, Morbi, Surendranagar, and Kutch on Wednesday. On Thursday, March 13, a ‘severe heatwave’ is expected to hit Rajkot, Morbi, Surendranagar, and Kutch.
Authorities have advised residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. People are urged to stay indoors, especially between 12 PM and 4 PM, wear loose and light-colored clothing, keep their heads covered, and stay hydrated by consuming plenty of fluids. Extra care should be taken for the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
The early arrival of such extreme temperatures raises concerns about worsening conditions in the coming months. IMD forecasts indicate that April and May could witness even higher temperatures, making the summer particularly harsh for the region.
