Rajasthan’s weather has taken an unseasonal turn, with rain, dense fog, and hailstorms disrupting normal life across the state. Farmers face significant challenges as hailstorms damage crops, while residents brace for persistent rainfall and cold conditions. Here’s an in-depth look at the current weather scenario and what’s ahead.
Western Disturbance Brings Heavy Rainfall and Hailstorms
Rajasthan’s weather has shifted dramatically due to a fresh western disturbance. Heavy rains and hailstorms have struck multiple districts, leaving a trail of damage. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported up to 24 mm of rainfall in Churu’s Sadulpur area over the last 24 hours, while dense fog blanketed several regions.
Key Highlights
- Churu recorded 24 mm of rainfall, the highest in the state.
- Jaisalmer experienced the lowest temperature at 6.6°C.
- Dense fog disrupted visibility, impacting road and rail transport.
Temperature Drops Across Rajasthan
The cold wave gripping Rajasthan has caused a sharp decline in temperatures. Here’s a quick overview of temperatures across key districts:
- Alwar: 6.8°C
- Pali: 7.2°C
- Ajmer: 7.7°C
- Nagaur: 8.8°C
- Jaipur: 10°C
Maximum temperatures hovered between 10.4°C and 27.3°C, with dense fog adding to the discomfort during early mornings and nights.
— मौसम विज्ञान केंद्र जयपुर (@IMDJaipur) January 12, 2025
IMD Issues Dense Fog Alert for 15 Districts
The IMD has placed 15 districts under a dense fog alert, urging residents to exercise caution, particularly during travel. The affected districts include:
- Northern Rajasthan: Bikaner, Churu, Hanumangarh, Ganganagar
- Eastern Rajasthan: Alwar, Bharatpur, Jaipur, Dausa, Karauli
In addition, Alwar, Jhunjhunu, Churu, Hanumangarh, and Ganganagar are expected to experience a cold wave, with daytime temperatures remaining significantly low.
Rainfall to Continue Until January 23
The IMD has predicted continuous rainfall and cloudy skies across Rajasthan until January 23. Here’s what to expect:
- January 14-16: Rain likely in Udaipur, Kota, and Jaipur divisions.
- January 17-23: Widespread light to moderate rainfall across the state.
Dense fog will persist in the mornings, and nighttime temperatures are likely to dip further by 2-3°C.
Impact on Agriculture and Daily Life
Hailstorms and heavy rain have severely affected the rabi crops, including wheat and mustard. Farmers are struggling to manage waterlogged fields, which increase the risk of crop infections. This unseasonal weather has also disrupted daily life:
- Transport Delays: Reduced visibility has slowed down road and rail traffic.
- Health Concerns: Prolonged exposure to cold and damp weather has led to respiratory illnesses.
Makar Sankranti: Overcast Skies Expected
Makar Sankranti, observed on January 15, is likely to be marked by cloudy skies and scattered rain showers. This weather pattern will extend into the following week, keeping temperatures low and skies overcast.
How to Stay Safe During This Weather
To mitigate the impact of these adverse conditions, residents are advised to:
- Avoid early morning travel to reduce the risk of accidents due to fog.
- Use proper winter clothing and heating devices to stay warm.
- Farmers should ensure adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging in fields.
