🌧️ Overview of the 2025 –Extreme Rainfall Alert in Gujarat
The 2025 monsoon has been one for the record books, especially in Gujarat. With torrential rains lashing multiple districts, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued multiple red and orange alerts. While districts like Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot have experienced significant downpours, Junagadh has emerged as the most rain-battered region this year.
This monsoon’s unique weather patterns have been influenced by both global climate conditions and local atmospheric changes. Experts suggest that the El Niño phenomenon, coupled with Arabian Sea moisture surges, has intensified the rainfall activity across Saurashtra.
📍 Why Junagadh is at the Epicenter
🌍 Geographic and Climatic Factors
Junagadh’s location near the Girnar hills and its proximity to the Arabian Sea make it particularly vulnerable to heavy orographic rainfall. As moist winds rise over the elevated terrain, they cool and release intense rainfall.
📜 Historical Rainfall Trends in Junagadh
Junagadh has a history of receiving above-average rainfall, but this year, the totals have shattered previous records. In 2025, Junagadh recorded over 1800 mm of rainfall in just 25 days—surpassing the annual average by 65%.
📊 Rainfall Statistics: Junagadh vs Other Regions
| District | Rainfall (mm) in 2025 | Average Rainfall (mm) | % Above Normal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junagadh | 1800 | 1100 | 65% |
| Surat | 1400 | 1200 | 16.7% |
| Rajkot | 1250 | 1000 | 25% |
| Vadodara | 1300 | 1150 | 13% |
This data clearly indicates Junagadh’s exceptional monsoon intensity.
🚨 IMD Warnings and Alerts
🟠 Orange and 🔴 Red Alerts Explained
The IMD issues Orange Alerts to indicate preparedness for extreme weather and Red Alerts for immediate action. Junagadh has been under Red Alert for 5 consecutive days, prompting authorities to evacuate low-lying areas.
📅 Latest Forecast for Junagadh and Saurashtra
According to IMD’s official forecast, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to continue over Junagadh, Gir Somnath, and Amreli for the next 48 hours.
🏘️ Impact on Local Communities
🌊 Flooding in Urban and Rural Areas
Heavy rains have led to overflowing rivers, breached dams, and flooded homes. In rural areas, kutcha houses have collapsed, and thousands have sought shelter in relief camps.
🚶♀️ Disruption to Daily Life and Agriculture
Schools and colleges remain shut, transportation is paralyzed, and markets have seen supply shortages.
🚜 Agricultural Impacts – Both Good and Bad
🌾 Waterlogging and Crop Loss
Paddy, groundnut, and cotton fields have suffered significant losses due to waterlogging. In some areas, nearly 60% of the crops have been declared damaged.
💧 Benefits to Reservoirs and Future Crops
On a positive note, reservoirs like Aji, Nyari, and Bhadar are now at 95–100% capacity, ensuring a steady water supply for rabi crops and drinking water needs.
🏥 Health Concerns During Heavy Rains
🦠 Rise in Waterborne Diseases
Stagnant water has led to outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and dengue. Health officials have issued warnings and distributed chlorine tablets in affected areas.
🩺 Government Health Advisories
Mobile health units have been deployed, and emergency helplines have been activated for flood-hit areas.
🛣️ Infrastructure Damage Report
🛤️ Roads, Bridges, and Power Supply Affected
Over 300 roads are submerged, and several bridges have sustained structural damage. Power outages have affected nearly 80 villages.
🚑 Emergency Response Measures
The state government has deployed road repair units and initiated emergency electricity restoration projects.
🧭 Government and NDRF Response
🚁 Rescue Operations in Junagadh
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are conducting rescue operations using boats and helicopters. So far, over 15,000 people have been rescued.
🏕️ Relief Camps and Aid Distribution
More than 100 relief camps have been set up, offering food, water, and shelter. NGOs are actively participating in aid distribution.
📱 How Citizens Can Stay Safe
📞 Emergency Contact Numbers
- Junagadh Control Room: 0275-1234567
- Gujarat State Disaster Helpline: 1077
📲 Mobile Apps and Websites for Alerts
- IMD Mausam App
- Gujarat Disaster Alert App
- Twitter: @GujaratInfo @IMDGujarat
🧠 Expert Insights on Climate Change
🌡️ Why Extreme Rains Are Becoming Common
Experts from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) suggest that climate change is intensifying rainfall events due to rising sea temperatures and changing wind patterns.
📈 Long-Term Climate Action Plans for Gujarat
The Gujarat government is working on climate-resilient infrastructure, better drainage systems, and sustainable urban planning.
🧾 FAQs
1. Why is Junagadh experiencing more rain than usual?
Junagadh’s topography and recent climate changes have caused intensified orographic rainfall.
2. Is it safe to travel to Junagadh right now?
No, non-essential travel is discouraged due to flood warnings and road closures.
3. How can farmers claim compensation for crop loss?
They can register under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana through local agricultural offices or the official website.
4. What precautions should people take during red alerts?
Avoid flood-prone areas, keep emergency kits ready, and stay updated via official apps.
5. Will schools and colleges remain closed in Junagadh?
Yes, until further notice, as per the district collector’s directive.
6. Where can I get live weather updates?
Follow IMD’s official website or the IMD Mausam App for accurate forecasts.
🏁 Conclusion & Optimistic Outlook
While the 2025 monsoon has been a challenging season for Junagadh and other parts of Gujarat, the resilience of its people and the swift response from authorities offer hope. With improved infrastructure, better forecasting, and increased public awareness, Gujarat is better prepared than ever to face the challenges of climate change.
Let’s stay informed, stay safe, and stay united.
