Heatwave bakes Rajasthan, Jaisalmer hits 48°C — the highest in India

Churu reported 45.6°C with a departure of 2.9°C, and Jodhpur wasn’t far behind at 44.5°C, up 3.3°C from average. Sriganganagar registered 44.1°C (+1.6°C), while Jaipur and Ajmer saw highs of 43.2°C and 43.1°C, respectively.

Earlier in the day at 2:30 p.m., Jaisalmer had already reached 47.4°C, according to IMD’s real-time bulletin. Severe heatwave conditions persisted in isolated pockets of Rajasthan, with “warm night” conditions reported in several areas—an added health risk due to minimal nocturnal relief.

Ongoing heatwave alerts, forecast

The IMD issued a yellow alert for Rajasthan, indicating moderate health risks to the general public and greater concern for vulnerable groups like infants, the elderly, and individuals with chronic conditions. The advisory urged people to avoid heat exposure, wear lightweight cotton clothing, cover their heads, and remain well-hydrated.

An orange alert was also issued for regions likely to see higher health risks from heat exposure, advising the use of ORS solutions and homemade drinks like lemon water and buttermilk to prevent dehydration. The guidance remains in effect through the week, with heatwave conditions expected to continue over Rajasthan and adjoining areas until at least Day 5 of the forecast cycle.

A glimpse of what’s ahead

Meteorologists attribute this wave to a persistent high-pressure system combined with a delay in pre-monsoon activity, conditions that are becoming increasingly common in India due to climate change. The IMD predicts temperatures across Northwest India could rise further by 2–4°C over the next two days.

The department is actively disseminating safety guidelines via social media (@indiametdept) and through a QR code linking to its Heatwave Guidance Portal, providing district-wise warnings and health advisories.

As the region braces for even higher temperatures in the coming days, public health officials and local authorities remain on alert.

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