Tragic Loss During Stormy Weather
On a rainy Wednesday, Lightning Strikes Kill Two in Gujarat, with the tragic incidents reported in the Junagadh and Porbandar districts as heavy rain fell across the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for the Devbhoomi Dwarka district the next day, meaning people should stay alert for dangerous weather.
Heavy Rainfall and Relocation
Gujarat experienced heavy rainfall that affected many living in low-lying areas. About 600 people had to leave their homes in Junagadh, while 50 people were moved from Porbandar. This was done for their safety because many rivers overflowed. Local authorities wanted to ensure everyone’s well-being.
In the last 24 hours, parts of Gujarat received heavy rain. For instance:
- Mendarda received 331 mm (13 inches)
- Keshod saw 278 mm (10.94 inches)
- Vanthali had 258 mm (10.16 inches)
- Porbandar recorded 250 mm (9.84 inches)
This rain was not only heavy but also quick, causing stress for many residents. Especially affected were areas like Navsari and Valsad.
Casualties Reported
Among the sad news, Anjuben, a migrant worker from Madhya Pradesh, died in Amar village, located in Porbandar. She was struck by lightning. Another man, 25-year-old Akshay Kanubhai Maru, died in Samega village, Manavadar taluka of Junagadh. Authorities confirmed that no other rain-related deaths were reported.
Impact on Daily Life
The heavy rains caused many disruptions:
- About 60 rural roads were closed.
- 15 bus routes were also halted.
- Schools, colleges, and anganwadis were closed in the affected talukas: Keshod, Manavadar, Vantahli, and Mendarda.
Junagadh Collector, Anil Ranavasiya, said that these measures were necessary to protect the community.
Authorities Keep a Close Eye
The IMD, besides issuing a red alert for Devbhoomi Dwarka, also warned other districts like Surat, Navsari, Valsad, Amreli, and Bhavnagar. Porbandar District Collector S D Dhanani mentioned they had relocated about 50 individuals from low areas. They also closed eleven panchayat roads to ensure safety.
The Seasonal Rainfall
During this rainy spell, the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada River was at 77.88% of its full capacity, holding 26,0174 MCFT of water. The dam is crucial for managing water supply in the region. Officials stated that:
- 64 dams are currently under ‘high alert’.
- 29 dams are ‘on alert’.
- 21 dams are ‘under warning’.
Officials are closely monitoring water levels to avoid any flooding or disaster.
Rainfall Across Gujarat
As reported, the average rainfall for the season in Gujarat is around 71.31%. The highest rainfall levels are:
- Kutch region: 75%
- South Gujarat: over 73%
- North Gujarat: 72%
- Central-East Gujarat: 69.92%
- Saurashtra region: 69.06%
These figures show that some areas face heavier impact, but most of Gujarat is experiencing significant rainfall. The heavy rains are vital for the state, especially for agriculture.
The Wider Impact of Weather Alerts
People across Gujarat and surrounding regions need to stay informed during this time. The IMD has advised everyone to follow weather updates closely. This is important, not only for safety but for planning daily activities as well.
The red alerts from IMD could be a sign for nearby areas like Punjab to also remain cautious. Weather patterns are often interconnected, so it’s wise to pay attention to local forecasts.
Conclusion
As Gujarat faces heavy rains and lightning strikes, the focus is on safety. Rescues and relocations are necessary to protect lives. Readers are encouraged to stay informed and heed warnings from local officials. Weather can be unpredictable, and safety must always come first.
