A severe heatwave continued to grip large parts of Rajasthan on Monday, with temperatures soaring well above normal across western, northern and central districts. The desert city of Jaisalmer recorded the highest temperature in the state at 46.4 degrees Celsius, according to the Met department report. The state capital, Jaipur, also experienced its hottest day of the season so far, with a maximum temperature of 43.5 degrees Celsius.
Life Disrupted by Extreme Heat
The persistent heat has disrupted normal life, forcing people to remain indoors during peak afternoon hours. Roads and markets in many cities wore a deserted look. Residents reported increased dependence on coolers, air-conditioners and water supply as temperatures rose. Abrupt power cuts were also reported in various districts.
Temperature Highlights Across Districts
Jaisalmer was followed by Barmer, where a maximum temperature of 46 degrees Celsius was recorded. Kota and Vanasthali each recorded 45.7 degrees Celsius, while Chittorgarh and Phalodi registered 45.4 degrees Celsius. Churu recorded 45.3 degrees Celsius, Pilani and Bikaner each recorded 45 degrees Celsius, Jodhpur city recorded 44.3 degrees Celsius, Alwar recorded 43.6 degrees Celsius, Dausa recorded 43.3 degrees Celsius, Bhilwara recorded 43 degrees Celsius, and Ajmer recorded a maximum temperature of 42.5 degrees Celsius.
Jaipur Sweats Through Hottest Morning
People in Jaipur woke up to the hottest morning of the season so far, with a minimum temperature of 31.7 degrees Celsius. The scorching afternoon followed, with a maximum temperature of 43.5 degrees Celsius, about 3.2 degrees above normal. The intense heat prompted civic authorities to use anti-smog guns to sprinkle water on roads, especially in the Walled City areas, to provide relief to motorists and residents.
Rising Power Demand and Water Consumption
The intense heat has added to power demand across the state, with many households complaining of localised outages and voltage fluctuations. Water consumption has also surged sharply, especially in urban areas, as people struggle to cope with the prolonged spell of extreme weather.
Sudden Weather Change on Monday Evening
Monday evening saw a sudden weather change due to a western disturbance. Strong winds, rain and hailstorms were reported in Hanumangarh, Sriganganagar and Bikaner. Several other districts, including Churu, Jhunjhunu, Sikar, Jaipur and Alwar, experienced dust storms, cloud cover and light rainfall in isolated areas.
Weather Forecast for Jaipur and Western Rajasthan
For Jaipur, the weather office has forecast partly cloudy skies with chances of light cloud cover and gusty winds in the next 24 hours. With April ending on an intensely hot note, weather officials said western Rajasthan is likely to continue facing severe heatwave conditions over the next few days, with temperatures expected to remain in the 44 to 46 degrees Celsius range in several districts.
Dust Storm and Cloudy Sky Likely
The Met office has forecast partly cloudy skies and dust storms in some areas. Maximum and minimum temperatures may fall by around 1 degree Celsius over the next 24 hours, providing slight relief.
