Unseasonal rain, locally known as “Mavthu,” has impacted several parts of Gujarat as of May 5, 2026, due to a cyclonic circulation over the region. While these sudden showers have brought temporary relief from the intense 40°C+ summer heat, they have also created serious challenges for farmers and disrupted normal life in multiple districts.
Districts Affected by “Mavthu”
The India Meteorological Department has issued alerts for light to moderate rain and thunderstorms across key regions:
Central & North Gujarat
- Dahod
- Aravalli
- Mahisagar
- Panchmahal
- Chhota Udepur
Saurashtra Region
- Rajkot
- Amreli
- Bhavnagar
- Botad
South Gujarat
- Tapi
- Dang
These areas have experienced sudden weather changes, including thunderstorms and gusty winds.
Impact and Local Conditions
Weather Shift
Regions like Dahod (Fatehpura) and Aravalli (Modasa, Shamlaji) reported heavy rainfall along with dust storms and strong winds. This has led to waterlogging, reduced visibility, and a temporary drop in temperature.
Agricultural Damage
Farmers are facing significant losses, especially in crops such as moong (green gram), sesame, and groundnut. In addition, strong winds have caused premature fruit drop in mango orchards, raising concerns for seasonal income.
Continuing Heat in Cities
Despite rainfall in some areas, major cities like Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, and Vadodara remain under Yellow Alert, with temperatures expected to reach 42°C in the coming days.
Weather Forecast for May 6
According to IMD predictions:
- Light rain may continue early in districts like Aravalli, Panchmahal, Dahod, Mahisagar, and Chhota Udepur
- Most regions will return to dry weather by afternoon
This indicates that the current weather disturbance may gradually weaken.
Government Relief for Farmers
The Gujarat government has introduced multiple financial and structural support systems to help farmers affected by unseasonal rains.
Recent Relief Package
- ₹10,000 crore relief package announced to support affected farmers
- Compensation includes ₹22,000 per hectare for irrigated crops and ₹27,500 per hectare for horticultural crops
- Assistance is limited to 2 hectares per farmer
- Eligibility requires minimum 33% crop loss
- Funds are transferred via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
Permanent Assistance Schemes
Mukhyamantri Kisan Sahay Yojana (MMKSY)
- Zero-premium scheme
- Covers crop loss due to natural disasters
- Provides ₹20,000 per hectare for 33 to 60% loss and ₹25,000 per hectare for losses above 60%
- Coverage up to 4 hectares of land
Crop Input Subsidy
- Financial aid for seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs
- Applications processed through the iKhedut portal
MSP Procurement Support
- Government procurement of crops like groundnut, moong, urad, and soybean at Minimum Support Price (MSP)
- Helps stabilize farmer income during crises
How Farmers Can Apply for Relief
- Survey Verification: Damage is assessed by district administration and revenue teams
- Registration: Apply via iKhedut portal or nearest e-Gram center
- Documents Required: Aadhaar Card, 7/12 land record extract, bank passbook or cancelled cheque
The government may also initiate a fresh damage assessment survey based on current conditions before announcing any additional aid.
Conclusion
The sudden “Mavthu” rains across Gujarat have created a mixed impact—offering temporary heat relief but causing significant agricultural losses. While IMD forecasts suggest improvement in weather conditions from May 6 onward, the situation remains critical for farmers.
Government relief packages and schemes are expected to play a crucial role in minimizing losses and supporting recovery. Farmers are advised to stay updated with local authorities and complete necessary registrations to access financial assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is “Mavthu” in Gujarat?
A1. “Mavthu” is the local term for unseasonal rain that occurs during summer, often due to cyclonic circulations over the region.
Q2. Which districts in Gujarat are affected by unseasonal rain?
A2. Affected districts include Dahod, Aravalli, Mahisagar, Panchmahal, Chhota Udepur, Rajkot, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Botad, Tapi, and Dang.
Q3. What crops have been damaged due to the unseasonal rain?
A3. Crops such as moong (green gram), sesame, and groundnut have been affected. Mango orchards have also experienced premature fruit drop.
Q4. What compensation is available for affected farmers?
A4. Farmers can receive ₹22,000 per hectare for irrigated crops and ₹27,500 per hectare for horticultural crops, limited to 2 hectares, with a minimum 33% crop loss requirement.
Q5. How can farmers apply for relief?
A5. Farmers can apply through the iKhedut portal or nearest e-Gram center with documents including Aadhaar Card, 7/12 land record extract, and bank passbook.