Summer has now reached its peak in Gujarat. Fires raining down from the sky have affected public life. Especially in Rajkot, the capital of Saurashtra, the heat has started breaking all records. On Monday, Rajkot was the hottest city in the state with a temperature of 41.1°C . According to the forecast of the Meteorological Department, the heat will increase further in the next 5 days and the mercury may cross 43°C .

Roads deserted in Rajkot, demand for shade at traffic signals

A curfew-like atmosphere is being witnessed in Rajkot during the afternoon. Even in busy areas like the racecourse and ring road, the movement of people has become negligible. To avoid the heat, people are now demanding that traffic signals be turned off during the afternoon or that shade be arranged at the signals. People are also facing inconvenience due to the heat at night.

Voting on April 26 and 'head-splitting' heat

The most worrying thing is that when the local body elections are to be held in the state on 26 April 2026 , the mercury is likely to reach 43°C . This heat will prove to be a severe test for voters standing in long queues at polling stations. It has become imperative for the administration to arrange water and shade for voters.

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Conditions in other cities of the state (Monday's temperature):

Rajkot: 41.1°C

  • Amreli: 40.9°C

  • Ahmedabad: 40.2°C

  • Vadodara/Gandhinagar: 39.6°C

  • Surat: 37.5°C

    Today's forecast: Where and how much will the mercury rise?

    According to the Meteorological Department, the heat wave will continue today:

    42°C: Rajkot

  • 41°C: Amreli, Ahmedabad, Vadodara

  • 40°C: Gandhinagar, Deesa

  • 31°C to 35°C: Dwarka, Veraval, Diu (lowest temperature)

    Heat protection tips for voters:

    According to experts, it is advisable to wear light-colored cotton clothes, carry a bottle of water with you, and cover your head when going out to vote. It would be safer to exercise your franchise early in the morning or in the evening, especially avoiding voting during the afternoon.

    Meteorological Department warning: The next 120 hours are tough for Gujarat, avoid unnecessary outings to avoid heatstroke.