Gusty winds, rain bring respite from scorching heat in Surat, other south districts

The high-speed winds and rainfall also prompted people to seek shade to stay dry on both beaches. The stall owners must open the shades over their items and shield people from the rain.

According to the Surat district flood control, rainfall that began later in the afternoon lasted for about one hour, and Surat city recorded 14 mm. There was a fire at a motor car showroom in Kapodara, Surat city. Firefighting teams from five different zones arrived at the scene and controlled the fire after one hour. The estimated loss is yet to be determined, said a fire officer. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, as forensic science officials also reached the spot and commenced an investigation.

Rainfall was also reported in Navsari, Tapi, and Valsad districts in South Gujarat. No untoward incidents due to rains have been reported in any district of South Gujarat so far.

This unseasonal rain, which has provided relief for city residents, is raising serious concerns in the agricultural sector. It came at a time when farmers are either preparing to sow winter crops or readying crops for harvest. There is a danger of waterlogging in the fields due to sudden showers, which could especially damage the mature crops. If the rainy weather persists, farmers might face substantial financial losses. Currently, they are waiting in the wings to protect their crops and are closely watching the weather. People across Surat and South Gujarat are advised to heed the forecasts from the weather department and avoid coastal areas before leaving home in the coming days.

According to weather department officials in Surat, the maximum temperature recorded on Saturday was 33.0 degree Celsius, while the minimum temperature was 27.6 degree Celsius, with a relative humidity of 85 per cent.

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