Ahmedabad experienced the full force of the summer sun on Friday as temperatures soared to 42.1°C, making it one of the hottest days this month. The maximum and minimum temperatures were 1.9 degrees above the seasonal average, offering no nighttime relief as the minimum temperature remained at a warm 27°C.
City Life Disrupted by Heat
By mid-afternoon, traffic on the city's normally bustling roads had thinned out. Residents sought refuge indoors, while those who had to venture outside tried to beat the heat by covering their heads and drinking plenty of water and other fluids.
Forecast and Advisory
Little relief is expected in the coming days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that Saturday will maintain the 42°C mark, while a municipal advisory warns of an even harsher spike. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) anticipates that the heat could peak at 43°C on Sunday and Monday before a marginal dip.
Localized Temperature Variations
A localized analysis of air temperatures reveals a city divided by heat intensity. The southern parts of the city, including Lambha, Vatva, and Isanpur, along with pockets in Vastral, Ramol, Hathijan, Chandkheda, Ranip, Sardarnagar, Naroda, and Chandlodia, bore the brunt of the scorching air.
State-Wide Heatwave
The outlook across Gujarat is equally grim. Inland regions are expected to simmer between 41°C and 43°C over the next three days, with temperatures climbing another 2 to 3 degrees before falling by a similar margin. According to the IMD forecast, maximum temperatures in isolated pockets of coastal areas are likely to range from 35°C to 40°C.
Three cities and towns recorded maximum temperatures of 43°C or above on Friday. Amreli emerged as the hottest spot in the state at 43.3°C, closely followed by Rajkot at 43.1°C and Surendranagar at 43°C. Ahmedabad recorded 42.1°C, followed by Kandla and Keshod at 42°C. Several other cities recorded maximum temperatures above 40°C.
