Gujarat continues to battle a severe heatwave that has intensified since early April. On April 9, Rajkot became the hottest location in the state, hitting a staggering 45.2°C—the highest temperature recorded in the city for April in 133 years. In response, the District Education Officer (DEO) has directed all government, aided, and private schools in Rajkot city and district to operate between 7 AM and 11 AM for all grade levels.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued yellow alerts for Kutch, Rajkot, Banaskantha, and Sabarkantha, warning of continued heatwave conditions in these districts. In addition to Rajkot, 12 other cities reported temperatures above 41°C. Porbandar, in particular, saw an unusual 8.8°C rise above the normal temperature, reaching 43°C.
Gujarat Heatwave Snapshot:
- Amreli: 44.3°C
- Surendranagar: 43.8°C
- Deesa: 43.6°C
- Ahmedabad & Gandhinagar: 43°C
- Vadodara & Porbandar: 43°C
- Surat & Bhavnagar: Over 41°C
Temperature spikes ranged from 1°C to 8.8°C above normal. Rajkot’s temperature exceeded the average by 6.2°C, while Surat saw a 4.9°C jump.
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Humidity levels along Gujarat’s coastal areas have surged due to sea winds, intensifying discomfort. The IMD anticipates a slight dip in temperatures—by 2–4°C—from Friday onwards as a low-pressure area develops over the Bay of Bengal.
Climate Extremes:
- Porbandar: 6th hottest April day in 65 years
- Deesa: 10th hottest April day in 93 years
These figures underscore the rising frequency and intensity of extreme heat events across Gujarat.
What is a Heatwave?
According to the IMD:
- A heatwave is declared when temperatures in plains touch 40°C or more.
- If temperatures rise above 47°C, it’s termed an extremely severe heatwave.
- Heatstroke, a serious risk, occurs when the body temperature exceeds 37°C, causing dehydration, confusion, fainting, and in severe cases, death.
Heatstroke: First Aid & Home Remedies
First Aid:
- Move the person to a cool, shaded area.
- Use cold compresses or ice packs.
- Rehydrate using lime juice, ORS, buttermilk, or coconut water.
- Seek medical help if symptoms like confusion or fainting appear.
Home Remedies:
- Apply a paste made of barley flour and onion.
- Drink onion juice mixed with honey.
- Consume jaggery after meals; avoid stale or heavy food.
Safety Tips to Beat the Heat:
- Avoid stepping out between 12 PM and 3 PM.
- Stay hydrated consistently.
- Wear light-colored, cotton clothes.
- Use umbrellas, hats, or sunglasses when outdoors.
- Avoid alcohol, tea, and coffee.
- Eat light meals, include curd and fruits.
- Never leave home on an empty stomach to prevent electrolyte imbalance.