Rains give respite from heat

Vadodara: The city’s prolonged spell of scorching heat came to an abrupt end on Saturday night as rain, strong winds and dust storms swept through several areas, bringing temperatures down after days of 40°C heat.

The late-night showers offered much-needed relief to residents reeling under relentless summer conditions. But the sudden change in weather also brought brief disruptions in its wake.

Power supply was temporarily affected in some localities, leaving residents without electricity for short periods. Strong winds uprooted trees in different parts of the city, prompting fire brigade teams to rush to clear roads and remove fallen branches. No injuries or major damage were reported.

The weather system extended beyond the city, with Mahisagar, Dahod and Panchmahal districts also witnessing rain accompanied by gusty winds and dust storms. In several areas, reduced visibility and blowing dust made commuting difficult.

Dahod was among the worst-affected districts, reporting power outages, uprooted trees and waterlogging on roads in some areas following the downpour.

While the showers brought respite from the oppressive heat, they also sparked concern among farmers, who fear possible damage to standing crops due to the unseasonal weather activity.