Cold Wave Warning in Rajasthan: Schools Shut in Multiple Districts

Rajasthan is currently experiencing a severe cold wave, with temperatures dipping significantly across various districts. The Meteorological Department has issued an alert for the next three days, forecasting intense cold conditions in regions including Jaipur, Bikaner, and Bharatpur. The impact of the northern cold winds is expected to lower temperatures by 2-3°C, exacerbating the winter chill.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the weather situation, district-wise school closures, and the expected weather developments in the coming days.

Current Weather Conditions in Rajasthan

Severe Cold Wave in Key Regions

• Northern Rajasthan: Districts like Sri Ganganagar and Hanumangarh are experiencing biting cold, with temperatures hovering around 15-16°C during the day.
• Eastern Rajasthan: Bharatpur and Karauli have recorded maximum daytime temperatures below 14°C, with dense fog and reduced visibility compounding the cold.
• Southern Rajasthan: Kota and Udaipur divisions are also witnessing a dip in temperatures, though the impact is slightly less severe compared to northern regions.

Temperature Trends

• Over the past 24 hours, districts such as Dholpur, Sikar, and Kota have reported sharp drops in daytime temperatures, with the mercury falling by 4-8°C in some areas.
• Dholpur recorded the coldest day with a maximum temperature of 13.2°C, followed closely by Karauli at 13.5°C.

Maximum and Minimum Temperatures

• Maximum temperatures in key cities:
  • Jaipur: 17.7°C
  • Sri Ganganagar: 15.3°C
  • Churu: 19.4°C
  • Mount Abu: 15.8°C
• Minimum temperatures remain higher than average in cities like Bhilwara, Pilani, and Chittorgarh, ranging 3-5°C above the seasonal norm.

Upcoming Weather Forecast

Cold Wave Persistence

The cold wave is expected to persist across Rajasthan for the next three days, particularly affecting northern, eastern, and southern districts. Light rain is predicted in isolated areas starting January 11, which may provide slight relief from the ongoing cold conditions.

Regional Impact

• North and East Rajasthan: Bharatpur and Udaipur divisions will experience intensified cold conditions, with temperatures staying below seasonal averages.
• Western Rajasthan: Moderate relief is expected as temperatures stabilize slightly due to western disturbances.

School Closures Across Districts

In light of the extreme cold, authorities have extended school holidays in multiple districts to ensure the safety of students. Below is the updated schedule for school closures:

Parents are advised to check with local school authorities for updates regarding reopening dates.

Impact on Daily Life

Transportation and Commute

Dense fog has disrupted rail and road traffic across several regions:

• Train delays of up to 4 hours were reported in northern districts.
• Visibility on highways has dropped to less than 100 meters in fog-prone areas like Alwar and Bharatpur.

Health Concerns

The cold wave has led to a surge in winter-related illnesses such as:

• Hypothermia and frostbite cases in rural regions.
• Respiratory issues due to the combination of cold and fog.

Citizens are advised to dress in warm layers and avoid early morning and late-night travel unless necessary.

Weather Outlook Beyond January 11

The Meteorological Department predicts a change in weather patterns starting January 11, with:

• Cloud cover and light rainfall expected in parts of eastern and southern Rajasthan.
• A gradual rise in minimum temperatures, offering respite from the biting cold.

Safety Tips During Cold Waves

1. Stay Indoors: Limit exposure to extreme cold, especially during early morning and late-night hours.
2. Layered Clothing: Wear multiple layers to trap body heat effectively.
3. Warm Fluids: Consume hot beverages like tea and soup to stay warm and hydrated.
4. Heating Devices: Use heaters responsibly to avoid fire hazards.
5. Check on Vulnerable Groups: Ensure that elderly and young children are adequately protected from the cold.