On Monday, Ahmedabad experienced the second consecutive day of heat above 44°C, as the maximum temperature touched 44.2°C, which is 2.6 degrees higher than normal. The previous day, Sunday, recorded a maximum of 44.8°C, marking the third hottest April day in the city since records began.
Night Temperatures Also Above Normal
The city found no respite during the night, as the minimum temperature settled at 28.4°C, 2.3 degrees above normal. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast, the maximum temperature on Tuesday is likely to remain around 44°C.
Hottest in Gujarat
Ahmedabad was the hottest city in Gujarat, followed by Bhuj (43.8°C), Kandla (43.5°C), Gandhinagar (43.4°C), and Amreli and Rajkot (43.3°C).
IMD Forecast and Alerts
The IMD forecast indicates no large change in maximum temperatures over the next three days, followed by a gradual fall of 2-3 degrees over the subsequent four days. Maximum temperatures are expected to range between 41-45°C over inland areas and 35-40°C over coastal pockets during the next three days. Coastal regions are likely to experience hot and humid weather on Tuesday.
IMD has issued a yellow alert for Patan, Rajkot, Surendranagar, Morbi, and Kutch for Tuesday. The Heat Action Plan bulletin of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) indicates maximum temperatures around 44°C and minimum temperatures around 28°C until May 2, with the probability of such conditions reducing from 'most likely' on April 28 to 'likely' on May 2. An overall orange alert is in place for subsequent days.
Relief from May 3
From May 3 onwards, temperatures in the 43-degree range may reduce the alert to yellow, according to the bulletin.
Hotspots and Health Advisory
Some hotspots identified by a city-based startup using air temperature as a measure for heat impact include parts of Lambha, Vatva, Vastral, Ramol-Hathijan, Chandkheda, Ranip, Sardarnagar, Naroda, Thaltej, and Gota.
Experts have warned of heat stress due to high temperatures throughout the day and night, advising citizens to remain hydrated, avoid direct heat, and cover their heads when going out. Several NGOs in the city are distributing water and buttermilk free to citizens.
