Rajasthan Heatwave Intensifies: Red Alert Issued in Four Districts, 17 Under Weather Warning

April 17, 2025 — Jaipur, India — The scorching summer in Rajasthan continues to escalate, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing heatwave alerts for 17 districts on Thursday. Among them, four districts — Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Barmer, and Jodhpur — are under a red alert due to extreme temperatures and intense heatwave conditions.

Record-Breaking Heat in Jaisalmer

On Wednesday, Jaisalmer recorded a maximum temperature of 46°C, the highest April temperature in six years, and nearly 7°C above the seasonal average. Other parts of western Rajasthan such as Phalodi, Bikaner, and Sri Ganganagar also witnessed temperatures soaring above 44°C, signaling the arrival of peak summer conditions much earlier than usual.

Widespread Heatwave Alerts Across Rajasthan

The IMD has categorized the heatwave intensity into different alert levels across the state:

• Red Alert (Severe Heatwave):

  • Jaisalmer

  • Bikaner

  • Barmer

  • Jodhpur

• Orange Alert (Moderate to Severe Heatwave):

  • Nagaur

  • Jalore

  • Chittorgarh

• Yellow Alert (Mild Heatwave Conditions):

  • Pali, Bhilwara, Pratapgarh, Ajmer, Jaipur, Sikar, Churu, Sri Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, Jhunjhunu

Jaipur Reels Under Sweltering Heat

In the state capital Jaipur, the temperature peaked at 39°C on Wednesday, climbing 1°C higher than the previous day. Clear skies and strong, dry winds created uncomfortable conditions throughout the day, with the heat expected to persist for the next 48 hours.

IMD Advisory: Precautions for the Public

The Meteorological Department has urged residents to:

• Avoid stepping out between 12 PM and 4 PM

• Stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing

• Take extra precautions for children, elderly, and outdoor workers

Schools and local authorities are also being advised to make accommodations for outdoor activities and ensure adequate shade and hydration facilities are in place.

Climate Impact and Health Concerns Rise

The early onset and intensity of the heatwave are raising public health concerns, with hospitals already noting an uptick in cases of heat exhaustion and dehydration. Experts link the unusual temperature surge to climate anomalies and changing weather patterns affecting the desert state.