Gujarat Heat Intensifies: Temperatures to Stay Above 40°C Until End of April
Ahmedabad Disables Traffic Signals Midday to Curb Heat Stress
AHMEDABAD — With temperatures surging across Gujarat, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued extreme heat through the end of April, with maximum temperatures expected to range between 40°C to 44°C. Cities such as Rajkot and Bhuj are likely to record highs of 42°C, while Ahmedabad may hover around 41°C.
To mitigate the impact of the heatwave, Ahmedabad authorities have announced a temporary suspension of traffic signals between 12 PM and 4 PM, allowing smoother traffic flow to reduce waiting time under the scorching sun. The city’s remaining 200 signals will continue to operate as usual.
High Heat Without Formal Heatwave Alert
While no official heatwave warning has been issued, IMD officials caution that dry and hot winds may intensify discomfort across inland and coastal areas alike. Coastal cities are expected to remain slightly cooler due to sea breeze influence, but heat-related stress is still anticipated.
According to AK Das, a senior meteorologist with IMD, temperatures will remain high across almost all districts until April 27, and may rise by an additional 2–3°C thereafter. With this trend, even coastal regions in South Gujarat and Saurashtra are likely to experience increasingly oppressive conditions.
Gujarat Temperature Overview
The highest temperatures recorded on April 24 included:
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Bhuj: 42.7°C
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Surendranagar: 42.2°C
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Ahmedabad: 42.1°C
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Amreli: 41.9°C
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Gandhinagar: 41.6°C
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Disa: 40.8°C
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Vadodara: 40.4°C
Coastal cities such as Dwarka (31.8°C), Porbandar (35°C), and Veraval (31.4°C) remained relatively cooler, though heat discomfort remains a concern.
For April 25, IMD projected:
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Rajkot & Bhuj: 42°C
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Ahmedabad & Disa: 41°C
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Vadodara: 40°C
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Surat: 38°C
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Naliya: 38°C
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Porbandar: 34°C
Public Health Measures in Effect
Amid soaring temperatures, local administrations are deploying water stations and distributing awareness materials to help citizens avoid heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. Citizens are advised to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during peak hours, and use protective gear when traveling.
Though not categorized officially as a heatwave, the persistent high temperatures and rising trends indicate that April’s final week will be among the hottest this season in Gujarat.
