Parts of Gujarat had above normal rainfall

Data available with the meteorological department has suggested that only Kutch, Saurashtra and Diu in Gujarat, and Karnataka have received more than normal rainfall this year. The data compiled between June 1 and September 23 has shown that rainfall across India has been below normal. Kutch, Saurashtra and Diu have received total rainfall of 612.6 mm, against the average of 473.5 for the state.

An official of the meteorological department in Ahmedabad said that the above normal rainfall in Saurashtra, Kutch and Diu was because of the pressure that developed over the Bay of Bengal.

"Three to four systems were formed in the Bay of Bengal, which was why such rainfall was seen. Other parts of Gujarat have received below normal rainfall," said Manorama
Mohanty, meteorologist with the met department in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, the second spell of rain in August was sufficient to save the crops in Gujarat.

According to an official of the state agriculture department, the rain was sufficient for crops across the state. "After the second spell of rain, the cultivation figures revealed that farmers in Gujarat have stayed with cash crops like cotton again. The rainfall in Gujarat was not less, but delayed by a few days. Hence, the arrival will also be delayed," a met official said.