Intense Heatwave Hits Rajasthan; Barmer Reaches 45.6°C
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Synopsis
Rajasthan is facing a severe heatwave, especially in Barmer and Jaisalmer, with temperatures soaring. Barmer recorded a historic high of 45.6°C, marking a significant increase above seasonal averages. The heat is expected to persist for several days, prompting alerts and health advisories.
Key Takeaways
- Rajasthan is undergoing a severe heatwave.
- Barmer recorded a high of 45.6°C.
- Nighttime temperatures are unusually high, reaching 28.8°C.
- Public movement has decreased due to the extreme heat.
- Healthcare experts recommend hydration and safety protocols.
Jaipur, April 7 (NationPress) Rajasthan is currently facing a severe heatwave, with Barmer and Jaisalmer identified as the hottest spots.
The Meteorological Centre in Jaipur reports that a critical heat spell has commenced and is expected to persist for the next two to three days, with little relief anticipated.
On Sunday, Barmer recorded the highest temperature in the state at 45.6 degrees Celsius, exceeding the seasonal average by 6.8 degrees Celsius.
This temperature represents the highest recorded in the first week of April in Barmer since 1998, when the mercury hit 45.2 degrees Celsius on April 3.
R.S. Sharma, IMD Jaipur Director, stated, “Rajasthan registered its highest-ever temperature of 45.6 degrees Celsius (an increase of 6.8 degrees Celsius above normal) during the first week of April on Sunday in Barmer. Previously, 45.2 degrees Celsius was noted on April 3, 1998.”
“The heat was intense not only during the day; nighttime temperatures were also exceptionally high. Barmer's minimum temperature reached 28.8 degrees Celsius, which is 6.4 degrees Celsius above average, marking it as the hottest night in the state,” he added.
Jaisalmer followed closely, recording a maximum temperature of 45 degrees Celsius, while several other cities also faced extreme heat.
In total, 21 cities across the state reported temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius or higher.
Jaipur saw 40.7 degrees Celsius, Ajmer at 40.8, Bhilwara and Vanasthali (Tonk) at 41.6, Pilani at 41, Kota at 42.4, Udaipur at 40.9, Chittorgarh at 43.2, Jodhpur at 43, Bikaner at 43.3, Churu at 42.4, Sriganganagar at 41.7, Jalore at 42, Pali at 41.2, Sirohi, Baran at 40, Fatehpur at 40.3, and Dungarpur at 41.1 degrees Celsius.
The extreme heat has resulted in reduced public movement across many cities, especially during peak afternoon hours.
As of 8:30 am on Monday, the average relative humidity in most areas of Rajasthan was between 20 percent to 45 percent, indicating dry and uncomfortable conditions.
The Meteorological Department has issued a heatwave alert for 14 districts for Monday.
The department has warned of heatwave conditions in Kota, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur, and Bikaner divisions from April 7 to April 9. Following that, from April 11-13, a new westerly disturbance is expected to lower temperatures, with sporadic rain in some areas.
Residents are urged to take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Healthcare experts advise the public to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and adhere to heat safety protocols. Special attention is recommended for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health issues.
