Impact of Snowfall Reaches Gujarat; ‘Baba Venga’ of Gujarat’s Prediction Comes True, IMD Issues Alert

Ahmedabad: After several days of hazy skies, the sun finally broke through in Gujarat on Monday. However, due to the influence of a western disturbance, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning of rainfall in districts bordering Madhya Pradesh.

Gujarat’s weather expert Ambalal Patel, often referred to as the state’s ‘Baba Venga’, had on January 31 predicted unseasonal rainfall and sudden changes in the state’s weather.

IMD Issues Alert
The IMD has forecast light to moderate rainfall and snowfall in the northern hilly regions of India until February 3 due to the western disturbance. This northern weather activity is now affecting western regions, including Gujarat. According to the latest bulletin, northern Gujarat is likely to receive rainfall. Ambalal Patel had earlier issued a warning about unseasonal rains in the northern parts of the state.

When Will the Cold Subside?
Ambalal Patel had predicted snowfall in the hilly areas, which would also affect Rajasthan. Consequently, unseasonal rains are expected in parts of northern Saurashtra and adjoining regions of Gujarat. Last year, unseasonal rainfall caused significant damage to farmers, prompting the state government to release compensation worth ₹10,000 crore.

Patel also forecast that districts of Gujarat bordering Madhya Pradesh—such as Dahod, Panchmahal, and Narmada—would experience the effects of the western disturbance. He added that the cold wave in Gujarat is likely to ease after February 20. The state’s long coastline also contributes to weather changes in around 10 districts due to sea conditions.

Districts on Rain Alert
The IMD’s bulletin mentions that light rainfall is possible in Aravalli, Mahisagar, Dahod, and Panchmahal districts, accompanied by strong winds. Ambalal Patel had similarly predicted the impact of the western disturbance on Gujarat.

While the IMD has issued fog warnings for Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh, several cities in Gujarat have also experienced haze over the past two to three days. Currently, the maximum temperature in the state ranges between 29°C and 30°C, and the minimum around 19°C. On Monday, the day witnessed bright sunshine.