Rajasthan Heatwave: Barmer Records Highest April Temperature in 56 Years at 45.6°C

Jaipur, April 7 Rajasthan is reeling under a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels in early April. On Sunday, Barmer recorded a scorching 45.6°C, marking the highest temperature for the first week of April in the last 56 years. The previous April high in Barmer was 45.2°C, recorded in 1998.

Heatwave Alert Issued for 14 Districts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert for 14 districts of Rajasthan starting Monday. The department has warned that the extreme heat conditions are expected to persist for the next 2–3 days, with no immediate relief in sight. Health officials have advised people to stay indoors during peak hours and remain hydrated to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Barmer emerged as the hottest city in India on Sunday, recording a minimum temperature of 28.8°C, which is 6.4 degrees above normal, along with the record-breaking maximum. Jaisalmer followed closely with 45°C, where hot winds intensified discomfort throughout the day.

Statewide Surge in Temperatures

Other major cities across Rajasthan also reported temperatures above 40°C, indicating a widespread heatwave across the region:

• Jaipur: 40.7°C

• Ajmer: 40.8°C

• Bhilwara & Tonk (Vanasthali): 41.6°C

• Kota: 42.4°C

• Udaipur: 40.9°C

• Jodhpur: 43°C

• Bikaner: 43.3°C

• Chittorgarh: 43.2°C

• Churu: 42.4°C

• Sriganganagar: 41.7°C

• Jalore: 42°C

• Pali: 41.2°C

• Dungarpur: 41.1°C

In total, 22 cities recorded temperatures above 40°C, and in 12 cities, the minimum temperature stayed above 20°C, indicating persistent heat even during nighttime hours.

Possible Weather Relief Later This Week

According to the IMD, temperatures are likely to rise further across five divisions of the state in the next three days. However, relief may be on the horizon as a new Western Disturbance is expected to become active later this week. This could bring thunderstorms, dust storms, and light rain, potentially offering temporary respite from the relentless heat.

Until then, authorities and health officials urge residents to take precautions against heatstroke and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure during the day.