14 Sep 2021 | 04:36 AM UTC
India: Severe weather forecast through Sept. 16 across western and central regions
Severe weather including heavy rainfall and strong winds forecast through at least Sept. 16 across western and central India.
Event
Heavy rain and strong winds are forecast to affect western and central India through at least Sept. 16. As of Sept. 14, the Indian Meteorological Department has issued orange (second-highest level on a four-tier scale) weather alerts for thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds for portions of Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, western Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh states. Yellow thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong wind warnings are in place for the rest of the affected area. Authorities will likely issue new alerts, or update/rescind existing advisories, as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Initial reports indicate at least three people died and five other are missing in Rajkot and Jamnagar districts, Saurashtra Region, Gujarat State, as of Sept. 14 due to the heavy rain and flooding. Authorities have evacuated at least 2,450 people from low-lying and vulnerable areas of Rajkot District and at least 4,200 people from Jamnagar District, including 1,500 from Jamnagar City. Aji Dam in Rajkot District is likely to overflow over the coming hours and would almost certainly cause flooding along Aji River. At least 18 dams in Jamnagar District are overflowing.
Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. State highway 25, connecting Rajkot to Jamnagar, and National Highway 27, connecting Rajkot to Junagadh were temporarily closed Sept. 13. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Landslides could block roads and railways. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Further disruptions to rail transport are possible where floodwaters inundate tracks. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.
Advice
Confirm flights. Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential freight delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.
