As January unfolds, Rajasthan finds itself in the grip of an unusually mild winter, with temperatures across the state stubbornly remaining above seasonal averages. The anticipated severe cold conditions have largely failed to materialize, marking a significant departure from the typical chill experienced in the region during this period.
IMD Data Points to a Warming Trend
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has revealed a concerning broader trend, noting that 2025 is currently the 8th warmest year on record since nationwide record-keeping began in 1901. This pattern is reflected in Rajasthan's recent weather, where December was uncharacteristically warm, and January is forecast to follow suit, with only marginal dips expected in the first fortnight.
Radhey Shyam Sharma, director of the Jaipur Meteorological Office, explained the reasons behind the absent winter bite. "In December last year, snowfall in the hilly regions was almost negligible. Similarly, the western disturbances that usually bring rainfall during December were either weak or largely absent," he stated on Thursday. He added that the lack of December rainfall further contributed to the absence of shivering cold wave conditions.
Temperature Anomalies Across the State
Climatologically, Jaipur records an average minimum temperature of approximately 6.0 degrees Celsius during the peak winter months of December and January. This season, however, minimums have consistently hovered around 10.0 degrees Celsius or higher. The trend is evident in other traditionally cold-prone areas as well:
- Stations like Fatehpur, Churu, Pilani, and Sikar, where temperatures have previously plunged to 2.0 degrees Celsius or below, have recorded minimums of 3.0 degrees or above this winter.
Meteorologists attribute the mild conditions to the lack of strong north-westerly winds and infrequent snowfall in the hills of North India, which are crucial for driving cold air into Rajasthan.
Recent Rainfall Provides Temporary Respite
The state witnessed a change in pattern on Thursday, with several parts receiving mild to moderate rainfall. Some areas in the Bikaner division even experienced hailstorms. This cloud cover and precipitation led to a temporary drop in daytime temperatures.
Alwar emerged as the coldest place in Rajasthan, recording a minimum temperature of 8.0 degrees Celsius. Jaipur had its coldest day of the season so far, with the maximum temperature dropping to 18.0 degrees due to the rain and cloud cover.
Looking ahead, the Met department forecasts that cloudy conditions are likely to persist in the coming days. While a brief dip in temperatures is possible, a gradual rise is expected thereafter, continuing the warmer-than-usual winter trend for the region.
