Surat city experienced a sudden and severe weather shift late Monday night, as heavy rains accompanied by strong winds lashed the region around 2 AM, creating storm-like conditions that disrupted daily life across the city. According to the weather department, this unexpected downpour was part of a broader shift affecting the entire South Gujarat region.
The intense rainfall and high-velocity winds caused significant property damage. In several areas, solar panels installed on rooftops were dislodged and thrown to the ground. One such incident occurred in Abhinav Society on Honey Park Road, where a flying solar panel landed on a parked vehicle in the adjacent Muktanand Society, damaging the car. Uprooted trees and fallen electricity poles also led to power outages in some neighborhoods.
The unseasonal rain dealt a serious blow to the agricultural sector. Key crops such as rice, mangoes, and vegetables suffered extensive damage. As the rice harvest season was underway, many fields with standing crops were flattened by the rain and wind. There is also concern about the impact on mango orchards and vegetable farming, which are vital to the region’s rural economy.
Transport services were affected as well. With the onset of rain across South Gujarat, several railway services were delayed, leading to overcrowding at Surat railway station and inconvenience for passengers.
Just days earlier, the city had been battling intense heat and humidity. Light showers had already been recorded Monday evening in areas such as Adajan, Chowk, and Athwalines. The rainfall gradually spread to Piplod, Vesu, Limbayat, Udhna, and other parts of the city, bringing brief respite from the scorching temperatures.
However, the midnight storm raised new concerns. The heavy downpour and strong winds have affected food supply chains, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation. The meteorological department has predicted similar weather conditions to continue over the next few days and advised residents to stay alert.
Light rain continued through Tuesday afternoon, making the city feel like it was in the midst of a monsoon rather than peak summer. Many residents stepped out with umbrellas and raincoats, adjusting to the rare May rainfall.
