Western Disturbance triggers heavy rain, storms in Rajasthan from June 19
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
A fresh Western Disturbance has become active over Rajasthan, triggering rain and thunderstorms across several districts over the past 24 hours, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting intensified weather activity through the next 48 hours. The system is expected to keep atmospheric conditions unstable across large parts of the state in the coming days.
Rainfall Recorded So Far
Sri Vijaynagar in Sri Ganganagar district logged the highest rainfall in the state at 85 mm, according to the IMD. The Meteorological Centre in Jaipur confirmed that the newly activated Western Disturbance is the primary driver behind the current spell of unsettled weather.
Forecast for the Next 48 Hours
The IMD has warned of intense thunderstorms, gusty winds reaching 60–70 kmph, and scattered moderate to heavy rainfall across parts of the Bikaner, Jaipur, Bharatpur, and Ajmer divisions, as well as the Shekhawati region. Scattered light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds is also predicted for parts of the Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Kota divisions during the same period.
Extended Outlook: June 21 to June 24
Thunderstorm and gusty wind activity is likely to persist at isolated locations in the Bikaner, Jaipur, and Bharatpur divisions from 21 June to 24 June. However, rainfall activity is expected to weaken gradually over southern Rajasthan as the disturbance moves on. Officials have advised residents to exercise caution during thunderstorm activity, particularly in areas likely to experience strong winds and lightning strikes.
Temperature Readings Across the State
Sri Ganganagar remained the hottest location, recording a maximum temperature of 41.5 degrees Celsius. Phalodi and Jalore registered the highest overnight temperature at 30.2 degrees Celsius, while Pilani in Jhunjhunu district and Sikar recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 21.5 degrees Celsius.
Relief from Heat, Improved Moisture Conditions
The fresh spell of rain has brought temporary relief from rising temperatures in several districts and is expected to improve moisture conditions across parts of the state. This comes at a time when pre-monsoon heat had been building across the region, making the Western Disturbance's arrival a welcome development for residents and the agricultural sector alike. Western Disturbances affecting Rajasthan in June are not uncommon, but their intensity can vary significantly depending on the system's depth and interaction with local thermal gradients.