Slight relief from heat in Gujarat; Rajkot remains hottest at 40.3°C

Rajkot: After several days of intense heat, Gujarat experienced a slight dip in temperatures, though Rajkot remained the hottest city, recording 40.3°C — one degree above normal.

According to meteorological officials, the temporary drop in temperatures is due to southwesterly to westerly winds prevailing at lower atmospheric levels. This relief is expected to be short-lived.

Daytime temperatures fell appreciably in parts of the Gujarat region and Saurashtra-Kutch, while no major change was observed elsewhere. Temperatures continued to remain above normal to appreciably above normal in several areas, though near-normal conditions prevailed in some parts.

Isolated heatwave conditions persisted, particularly in parts of Gandhinagar district. Most cities recorded maximum temperatures between 31°C and 35°C — a welcome drop from earlier in the week when many locations saw temperatures soaring past 40°C.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a further fall of two-three degrees in maximum temperatures over the next two days. However, a gradual rise by two-three degrees is expected thereafter. Between April 15 and 17, maximum temperatures are likely to range between 40°C and 44°C across parts of Gujarat and the Saurashtra-Kutch region.