Rajasthan Shivers Under Intense Cold Wave, Life Grinds to a Halt
A severe cold wave tightened its grip on Rajasthan on Saturday, bringing daily life to a near standstill across several regions of the state. Following recent rainfall, temperatures witnessed a dramatic and sharp decline, with an average drop of nearly 6 degrees Celsius recorded in both minimum and maximum readings.
Record Low Temperatures Recorded Across the State
According to the meteorological department, Lunkaransar in the Bikaner district emerged as the coldest place in Rajasthan, recording a bone-chilling minimum temperature of 0.3 degrees Celsius. The department attributed this sudden and severe plunge in temperatures to active north-westerly winds sweeping across the region, coupled with snowfall in the hilly areas of North India.
The intense cold was widespread. After Lunkaransar, Nagaur recorded a minimum temperature of 0.5°C. Other notable low readings included:
- Fatehpur at 2.3°C
- Pali at 2.9°C
- Sriganganagar at 3.5°C
- Sirohi at 4°C
- Jaisalmer at 4.5°C
- Jalore at 5°C
- Bikaner at 5.1°C
- Churu at 5.4°C
- Pilani at 6°C
- Barmer at 6.7°C
- Ajmer at 6.9°C
- Jodhpur at 7.2°C
- Alwar at 8.2°C
- Kota at 11°C
These frigid conditions significantly intensified the chill factor, making mornings and nights particularly harsh and unbearable for residents in many parts of the state.
Jaipur Feels the Bite of the Cold
In the capital city of Jaipur, residents woke up to a notably chilly morning, with the minimum temperature settling at 9.4 degrees Celsius. The cold intensified throughout the day as strong, piercing winds blew across the city, keeping the maximum temperature capped at 18.8°C. Despite this reading being around 4 degrees above the seasonal normal, the harsh winds made the weather feel significantly colder, forcing most people to remain indoors for warmth and comfort.
The impact of the cold wave was clearly visible on public life. Footfall at public parks and recreational areas dropped significantly, with many regular morning walkers and fitness enthusiasts skipping their daily routines due to the severe and uncomfortable cold.
Daily Life and Livelihoods Disrupted
The cold wave has disproportionately affected vulnerable groups and outdoor workers. Daily wage earners, street vendors, and two-wheeler riders were among the worst affected, as prolonged exposure to the cold winds made working conditions extremely difficult and uncomfortable.
In response to the freezing temperatures, the demand for warm clothing, room heaters, and hot beverages like tea and coffee surged across markets. Simultaneously, homeless shelters and night shelters reported a marked increase in occupants seeking refuge and warmth from the freezing nights.
Weather Forecast and Continuing Chill
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that similar cold wave conditions are likely to persist across Rajasthan on Sunday. Looking ahead, the forecast suggests a change in pattern with a fresh spell of rainfall likely at isolated places starting from Monday.
In its detailed forecast, the Met office stated that mild showers are expected at a few places on Monday. Furthermore, it has issued a warning for possible thunderstorms accompanied by lightning on Tuesday, particularly in the Jaipur, Bikaner, Ajmer, and Bharatpur divisions. This forecast indicates that winter's fierce grip over Rajasthan is far from loosening, and residents must brace for continued cold and potentially disruptive weather in the coming days.
