Gujarat is preparing for an intense heatwave as temperatures across multiple districts continue to rise sharply above seasonal averages. Cities including Vadodara and Rajkot are already recording extremely high temperatures, while weather agencies have warned that several regions could soon approach the dangerous 45°C mark. This Gujarat heatwave alert 2026 has prompted authorities to issue official warnings.
According to the latest forecasts, the heatwave is expected to intensify from May 10, with hot and dry northwesterly winds increasing the severity of conditions across central, northern, and Saurashtra-Kutch regions of Gujarat.
Health officials and disaster management authorities have issued advisories asking residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours.
Gujarat Heatwave Situation Worsens
Several major cities in Gujarat are currently witnessing unusually high daytime temperatures.
Reported temperatures include Vadodara at 43.2°C and Rajkot at 41.5°C.
Weather observations indicate that these temperatures are significantly above normal seasonal averages for May. Historical climate data suggests that Rajkot’s average May maximum temperature usually remains around 30.7°C, making the present rise especially severe.
Officials have warned that if temperatures continue rising over the coming days, conditions could become dangerous for vulnerable populations including elderly citizens, children, outdoor workers, and people with existing medical conditions.
IMD Issues Orange Alert for Gujarat
Forecasters have issued an Orange Alert Gujarat for several districts beginning May 10 as the heatwave is expected to intensify further.
Expected Weather Developments
- Temperatures may rise by another 2°C to 3°C
- Some districts may approach 45°C
- Heatwave conditions could continue for 3 to 5 days
- Dry northwesterly winds are expected to worsen daytime conditions
Authorities stated that the heatwave may gradually expand into additional districts over the weekend.
Districts Likely to Be Affected
The intense heat is expected to spread across multiple parts of Gujarat.
Regions Under Major Heatwave Risk
Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Vadodara, Rajkot, Surat, Kutch, and North Gujarat districts are under the IMD heatwave warning.
Officials also warned that Saurashtra-Kutch regions may continue experiencing extreme daytime temperatures for several consecutive days.
Gujarat Forecast for May 9 to May 11
Weather projections indicate a gradual expansion of heatwave conditions across the state.
May 9 Forecast
Heatwave conditions are likely in isolated pockets of Rajkot, Surendranagar, Dwarka, and Kutch region.
May 10 Forecast
Conditions are expected to spread into North Gujarat, Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Vadodara, Surat, and Central and South Gujarat.
May 11 Forecast
Intense heat is expected to continue across Gujarat region and Saurashtra-Kutch areas.
Officials believe prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during these days may significantly increase the risk of dehydration and heatstroke.
IMD Heatwave Warning Levels Explained
The India Meteorological Department uses a colour-coded warning system to indicate heatwave severity.
- Green Alert: No warning issued, normal conditions
- Yellow Alert — “Be Aware”: Moderate heat conditions, health concerns for elderly citizens, infants, and vulnerable groups
- Orange Alert — “Be Prepared”: High probability of heat illness, increased danger for people working outdoors
- Red Alert — “Take Action”: Severe heatwave conditions, very high risk of sunstroke and medical emergencies
How IMD Declares a Heatwave
According to weather guidelines, heatwave conditions are declared based on temperature levels and departure from normal seasonal temperatures.
Criteria Include:
- Plains: Temperature reaches at least 40°C
- Coastal Areas: Temperature reaches at least 37°C
- Hilly Areas: Temperature reaches at least 30°C
A severe heatwave may be declared when temperature departure exceeds 6.4°C above normal or actual maximum temperature touches 45°C or higher. A temperature above 47°C is considered extremely dangerous.
Health Risks During Heatwave Conditions
Doctors and health authorities warn that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can trigger serious medical problems including heat exhaustion, severe dehydration, sunstroke, low blood pressure, fatigue and dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and breathing difficulties.
The risk increases significantly during afternoon hours between 12 PM and 4 PM.
Important Precautionary Measures
Authorities have advised residents to follow basic heat safety tips during the heatwave period.
Stay Hydrated
Drink water regularly even if you do not feel thirsty. Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) may help maintain electrolyte balance.
Avoid Peak Heat Hours
Residents are advised to avoid outdoor activity between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
Wear Suitable Clothing
Use loose cotton clothing, light-coloured garments, and caps or umbrellas while outdoors.
Protect Vulnerable People
Special care should be taken for elderly citizens, children, pregnant women, pets, and people with chronic illnesses.
Officials advised keeping vulnerable individuals in well-ventilated or air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.
Economic Impact of the Heatwave
The rising temperatures are also affecting infrastructure and agriculture across Gujarat.
Rising Power Consumption
Electricity demand has increased sharply because of air conditioners, coolers, and refrigeration systems. Power usage in several urban centres has reportedly reached record levels.
Agricultural Concerns
Experts warned that prolonged heat may affect mango crops in Saurashtra, horticulture production, and standing summer crops. Farmers are being advised to monitor irrigation schedules carefully.
Emergency Helpline Numbers Active in Gujarat
Authorities have activated emergency support systems for heat-related medical emergencies.
Statewide Emergency Numbers
- 108 — Ambulance emergency service
- 104 — Health helpline
- 112 — National emergency number
Surat Heatwave Emergency Helplines
- District Disaster Helpline: 1077
- SMC Toll-Free Helpline: 1800-123-8000
- Surat Civil Hospital: +91-261-2244456
Vadodara Heatwave Emergency Helplines
- Disaster Cell: 1077
- VMC Toll-Free Helpline: 1800-233-0265
- WhatsApp Helpline: +91-99131-66666
- S.S.G Hospital: +91-265-2424848
Immediate First Aid for Heatstroke
Health experts recommend immediate action if someone shows symptoms of heatstroke.
Step 1: Move to Shade
Shift the person to a cool room, air-conditioned space, or shaded area.
Step 2: Cool the Body
Use wet cloths, cool water, or ice packs on neck and underarms.
Step 3: Provide Fluids
If conscious, give water or ORS slowly. Do not give fluids if the person is unconscious or vomiting.
Call Emergency Services Immediately
Dial 108 ambulance service. Heatstroke is considered a medical emergency and delayed treatment can become life-threatening.
Conclusion
Gujarat is entering a critical heatwave phase as temperatures continue rising across major districts including Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot, and Kutch.
With Orange Alerts already issued and forecasts suggesting temperatures may approach 45°C, authorities are urging residents to remain cautious, avoid outdoor exposure during peak hours, and follow hydration and safety guidelines carefully.
Officials also advised people to monitor official weather updates regularly as conditions may intensify over the coming days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the Gujarat heatwave alert 2026 status?
A1. An Orange Alert has been issued for several districts beginning May 10, with temperatures expected to rise by another 2°C to 3°C.
Q2. Which cities are under heatwave warning in Gujarat?
A2. Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Vadodara, Rajkot, Surat, Kutch, and North Gujarat districts are under major heatwave risk.
Q3. What is the difference between Yellow and Orange Alert?
A3. Yellow Alert means “Be Aware” for moderate heat conditions, while Orange Alert means “Be Prepared” for high probability of heat illness.
Q4. What are the emergency helpline numbers in Gujarat?
A4. Statewide helplines include 108 (ambulance), 104 (health), and 112 (national emergency). Surat has SMC helpline 1800-123-8000.
Q5. What should I do if someone shows heatstroke symptoms?
A5. Move the person to shade, cool the body with wet cloths, provide fluids if conscious, and call 108 ambulance service immediately.