Widespread rain lashed the Saurashtra region bringing respite from the sweltering heat even as authorities advised fishermen from venturing into the sea.

One to seven inches rain was recorded in the region with the maximum rain being recorded in Junagadh district.

Sowing operations began in full swing in the region, weather officials said in Rajkot on Thursday.

The state government authorities have alerted district authorities, and district collectors met their officials and asked them to be ready to overcome rain-related difficulties, a report said.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea as the Arabian sea becomes rough due to low pressure, weather officials said.