Western Disturbances Unleash Rain and Hail Across Rajasthan
On Wednesday, western disturbances swept across Rajasthan, bringing significant rainfall, hail, and a sharp drop in temperatures, briefly reviving winter-like conditions. The weather event impacted multiple districts, leading to disruptions and highlighting infrastructure vulnerabilities.
Rainfall and Hailstorm Details
Naraina, located near Jaipur, recorded the highest rainfall in the state at 27mm, while Jaipur city itself received 1.2mm amid scattered showers. The spell affected districts across the Jaipur, Bharatpur, Ajmer, and Kota divisions, causing temperatures to plummet by nearly 6°C in both maximum and minimum readings.
In Jaipur, rain commenced around 4am and continued intermittently throughout the morning. By evening, some localities experienced a brief hailstorm accompanied by lightning and gusty winds. Videos of hailstones falling in residential areas were widely shared on social media, capturing the intensity of the weather.
Temperature Changes and Regional Impact
Jaipur recorded a minimum temperature of 17.7°C and a maximum of 22°C, reflecting a notable cooling effect. Other districts, including Kota, Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Churu, and Alwar, also reported rain, strong winds, and chickpea-sized hailstones. This led to a daytime temperature fall of 3–4°C in these areas, further emphasizing the widespread nature of the disturbance.
Infrastructure Issues Exposed
The rain exposed significant infrastructure lapses, particularly at the SMS Trauma Centre in Jaipur. Water flooded the waiting ward near the operation theatres after a leakage from the false ceiling near the second-floor OT complex. The incident began around 2pm, with water dripping initially and quickly intensifying, accumulating across the ward floor within minutes.
This event underscores the need for improved maintenance and preparedness in public facilities during extreme weather conditions.
