Heatwave conditions prevail in Rajasthan

Till a few days back Rajasthan was observing pleasant weather conditions as two wet spells in the region, one during the first two days of the month and second during the middle of the month had given some very good rain in the state. According to the data available with Skymet Meteorology Division in India, Kota has received 137 mm of rain so far against the monthly average of 2.8 mm. Jaipur has received 70 mm of rain against an average of 4.5 mm, while Bikaner has received 60 mm against 8.6 mm of rain.

But there has been a lull in the weather for the last ten days. Skies have opened up and bright sun is pushing up the temperatures in the region. A low level anti cyclonic circulation over north Arabian Sea and adjoining Gujarat are not allowing moist winds to reach Rajasthan, which is helping the temperatures to rise further.

According to the data available with Skymet, day temperatures in the region have crossed 40°C at many places, thereby resulting in heat wave. For instance Jodhpur recorded 40.6°C as the maximum temperature on Tuesday which is 6 degrees above normal. Jalore saw the day temperature settle at 41.1°C, which is also 6 degrees above normal. In Jaisalmer and Churu the maximums recorded 40.6°C and 40°C, respectively, which is 7 degrees above normal.

Hot days are being followed by warm nights. This can be understood from the fact that minimum temperature in Bikaner settled at 24.5°C on Wednesday morning, which is 7 degrees above normal. Pilani saw the minimum settle 9 degrees below the normal average at 24.2°C. The state capital Jaipur also saw the night temperature settle at 24.2°C, 6 degrees below normal.

The temperatures are going to sustain for another 3-4 days before a Western Disturbance in the hills and a cyclonic circulation in north Rajasthan result in some rain on March 29, Sunday.