Ahmedabad: A sudden change in weather has been witnessed across Gujarat due to a Western Disturbance and an upper-air cyclonic circulation over the region. Since the early morning of March 19, dust storms and unseasonal rain have affected several parts of the state, including Ahmedabad.

Strong winds triggered dust storms in Ahmedabad early in the morning, reducing visibility in several areas. Dust plumes were also seen in Gandhinagar, Kalol, and surrounding regions, causing inconvenience to motorists and commuters.

According to the State Emergency Operation Center, between 2 pm and 4 pm today, the highest rainfall of 20 mm was reported in Okhamandal taluka of Devbhumi Dwarka district. Lalpur in Jamnagar received 16 mm, while in Kutch district, Mundra recorded 15 mm, Bhuj 9 mm, and Nakhatrana, Abdasa and Lakhpat received 8 mm rain each. Most of the rainfall occurred during the afternoon hours, leading to sudden unseasonal weather changes in coastal and western parts of Gujarat.

Furthermore, during the last 24 hours ending at 6 am today, measurable rainfall was recorded in Dhanera of Banaskantha, Lakhani, Bagasara, and in Tharad, Suigam, Rah, Deodar, Bhabhar, Vav, and Dharnidhar talukas of the Vav-Tharad division.

As per local reports, Mehsana also witnessed storm-like conditions from around 4 am, during which a tree fell on a parked car, causing major damage. In Visnagar, strong winds blew away several shop sheds and hoardings.

In Patan district, the weather remained cloudy and hazy since early morning.

Farmers have expressed concern over possible damage to standing crops due to the unseasonal rain and strong winds. Crops such as wheat, fennel, and cumin are currently in the field, and adverse weather at this stage could lead to significant losses. DeshGujarat