Cyclonic Activity Near Arabian Sea Triggers Heavy Rain In Gondal, Rajkot And Amreli

Rajkot: A developing weather system over the east-central Arabian Sea is expected to intensify into a depression by tomorrow, triggering a week-long spell of heavy rain across Gujarat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for strong winds and storm-like conditions, especially in coastal and Saurashtra regions. In light of the warning, fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea, while those already in deep waters have been asked to return by Friday evening.

By Thursday evening, several parts of Saurashtra began witnessing the impact of the changing weather. In Gondal, powerful winds resembling a mini-cyclone caused widespread damage, including broken windows at a local hospital that sent patients scrambling for safety. Videos of the incident have gone viral on social media.

Rajkot experienced similar conditions, with strong gusts toppling trees and hoardings across the city. Near Civil Chowk, a tree collapsed, and on Racecourse Ring Road, a large hoarding fell, briefly blocking traffic. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries.

In Kotda Sangani, lightning strikes led to the death of 10 goats. Meanwhile, heavy rain in Amreli and Chotila brought some relief from the heat but also caused disruption. In Charkhadi village, a tree fell on a car and a rickshaw during a downpour, though no casualties were reported.

With a possible cyclone looming, the Okha Coast Guard has gone into alert mode. Patrol vessels are actively warning fishermen at sea, urging them to return to shore and stay safe. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have advised strict safety measures for all coastal activities over the coming days.