Is Extreme Heat Posing Health Risks in Rajasthan?
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Synopsis
As Rajasthan endures a severe heatwave, health officials highlight the alarming risks facing vulnerable populations. Discover how this extreme weather affects not only human health but also agriculture and wildlife, and learn essential safety tips to survive the scorching temperatures.
Key Takeaways
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and traditional beverages.
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
- Protect vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children.
- Take care of livestock by providing shade and water.
- Monitor local weather forecasts for updates on heatwave conditions.
Jaipur, April 30 (NationPress) A serious heatwave is currently affecting western Rajasthan, prompting the Meteorological Department to release a public advisory regarding the significant health risks linked to the soaring temperatures.
R.S. Sharma, Director of the Jaipur Meteorological Centre, emphasized that certain groups, such as the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly vulnerable to heat-related ailments.
“Individuals who spend extended hours outside or under direct sunlight are especially prone to heat exhaustion and heatstroke,” he added.
Sharma pointed out the wider implications of the heatwave. “Extreme heat can severely stress crops and vegetables, which may lead to a decline in agricultural productivity. Additionally, domestic animals, birds, and wildlife are also endangered,” he stated.
To ensure safety, Sharma recommended that people stay indoors during peak heat hours and seek shaded or cooler areas. “Staying hydrated is essential. In addition to drinking ample water, traditional drinks like lassi and nimbu pani, along with Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS), can help restore vital electrolytes lost through sweating,” he advised.
Farmers are encouraged to take proactive steps to safeguard livestock by providing shaded shelters and ensuring regular water access, as well as scheduling irrigation during cooler hours. Similar attention should be given to birds and wildlife, he urged.
Rajasthan remains under extreme heat conditions, with Jaisalmer hitting a blistering 46.3 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, which is 4.8 degrees above the norm. Bikaner recorded the highest minimum temperature at 29.8 degrees Celsius. Heatwave conditions are also affecting various areas across the Jodhpur division.
According to MeT officials, no significant temperature changes are anticipated over the next 48 hours. However, a slight drop of 2-3 degrees Celsius may occur afterward. Heatwave conditions are expected to continue in Barmer, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer, with Jaisalmer and Barmer likely being the hardest hit on May 1.
Relief may arrive starting Thursday, with predictions of cloud cover, thunderstorms, drizzle, and dust storms in isolated regions of the state.
Other cities reporting high temperatures include Phalodi at 45.8 degrees Celsius, Barmer at 45.7 degrees Celsius, Chittorgarh at 44.5 degrees Celsius, Jodhpur at 44 degrees Celsius, and Kota at 43 degrees Celsius. Gangdhar in Jhalawar district recorded 3 mm of rainfall on Wednesday; however, most of the state remained dry.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the severe implications of the ongoing heatwave in Rajasthan. This situation demands immediate attention and action from both the public and authorities. Our responsibility is to keep our readers informed about safety measures while advocating for the well-being of all affected. The nation must come together to address these challenges with empathy and action.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the health risks associated with extreme heat?
Extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses, particularly in vulnerable groups like the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
How can people stay safe during a heatwave?
To stay safe during a heatwave, it is advisable to stay indoors during peak heat hours, seek shaded or cooler areas, and ensure proper hydration by drinking water and traditional beverages like lassi and nimbu pani.
What impact does extreme heat have on agriculture?
Extreme heat can stress crops and vegetables, potentially reducing agricultural productivity and affecting food supply.
What precautions should farmers take during a heatwave?
Farmers should protect livestock by providing shaded shelters, ensuring regular water access, and scheduling irrigation during cooler parts of the day.
Is any relief expected from the heatwave?
Some relief may come with forecasts of cloud cover, thunderstorms, and drizzle starting Thursday, but heatwave conditions are expected to persist in some areas.
