Ahmadabad - At least 20 individuals lost their lives in lightning strikes, and extensive crop damage occurred across various regions as unseasonal rains lashed Gujarat on Sunday, as reported by officials.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims, acknowledging the relief efforts undertaken by the local administration. In a statement in Gujarati on X, he expressed deep sorrow for the tragic loss caused by adverse weather conditions and lightning in different cities of Gujarat. Mr. Shah offered heartfelt condolences and hoped for the swift recovery of the injured.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) anticipates a reduction in rainfall on Monday, with a concentration in certain parts of south Gujarat and Saurashtra districts.

Data from the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) indicates that 234 out of Gujarat's 252 talukas experienced rainfall on Sunday. Notably, districts such as Surat, Surendranagar, Kheda, Tapi, Bharuch, and Amreli encountered particularly intense rainfall, with precipitation ranging from 50 to 117 mm within a span of just 16 hours.

The IMD pointed out the presence of a cyclonic circulation over the northeast Arabian Sea, extending its impact over the Saurashtra and Kutch regions.