Cyclone Asna Threatens Gujarat Amidst Floods and Rains

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Cyclone Asna

Ahmedabad: As the state grapples with devastating floods and incessant rains, a new threat looms on the horizon: Cyclone Asna. This rare weather phenomenon is set to occur for the fourth time in 80 years, and its impact will extend beyond the Arabian Sea to affect the entire Gujarat region.

The Current Situation

  • Heavy Rain and Floods: Gujarat is currently facing a dire situation with heavy rainfall and widespread flooding. The relentless downpour has been attributed to a deep depression.
  • Cyclone Formation: The same depression is now intensifying and on track to transform into Cyclone Asna. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that it will hit the Gujarat coast soon.
  • Red Alert: The Saurashtra-Kutch region, including Kutch and Saurashtra, is on high alert. Fishermen have been advised to stay ashore, and strong winds of 60-65 kmph are expected along the coasts of Gujarat and North Maharashtra.

Cyclone Asna’s Path

  • The deep depression over Saurashtra and Kutch is gradually moving west-southwestward. It is projected to emerge over the northeast Arabian Sea near Kutch and adjoining Pakistan coasts, where it will intensify into Cyclone Asna.
  • Interestingly, Pakistan suggested the name “Asna” for this cyclonic storm. Notably, only three cyclonic storms developed over the Arabian Sea in August from 1891 to 2023. This event marks the first August cyclone since 1976.
  • In 1976, a similar cyclone had also formed in Odisha.

Impact and Relief Efforts

  • Flood Evacuations: Over 18,000 people have been evacuated from flood-hit areas in Gujarat. Security forces, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Army, Indian Air Force, and Indian Coast Guard, are conducting rescue operations.
  • Vadodara Situation: Vadodara, one of the worst-hit cities, saw a slight improvement as the water level of the Vishwamitri River receded from 37 feet to 32 feet.
  • Rainfall Data: Official data reveals that 20 talukas in Gujarat received more than 100 mm of rain during this period. Mandvi taluka in Kutch recorded 101 mm of rain in just four hours.
  • Continued Alert: IMD continues to predict heavy rains in the coastal areas of Saurashtra and Kutch.
Cyclone Asna

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been closely monitoring the situation, engaging with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and ensuring relief efforts are underway.

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