IMD issues yellow alert as Jaisalmer temperature soars above 45°C
Jaisalmer, May 19
Severe heatwave conditions continued to grip several districts of western Rajasthan, including Jaisalmer, one of the hottest desert regions in the country. Jaisalmer and Barmer remained among the worst-affected districts, with Jaisalmer witnessing an intense heatwave.
The scorching sun and relentless hot winds severely disrupted normal life, leaving residents struggling under extreme weather conditions.
With temperatures crossing 45 degrees Celsius, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow heatwave alert and warned that the mercury could rise to 47 degrees Celsius in the coming days. The intensity of the heat was evident from reports of mobile phones overheating and shutting down.
Amid the severe heat, the situation in Jaisalmer during the afternoon resembled a curfew-like atmosphere, with roads and markets remaining largely deserted. Locals said that although the recorded temperature stood at 46 degrees Celsius, it felt closer to 50 degrees. Efforts to escape the oppressive heat have largely failed, while concerns among residents continue to grow as heatwave conditions are expected to persist over the next 96 hours.
Hot winds begin blowing after 10 am and continue until 7-8 pm, while the blazing sun and rising temperatures have left streets and marketplaces nearly empty. People have been forced to remain indoors during peak afternoon hours.
The Health Department has advised residents to avoid venturing outdoors during the afternoon, stay adequately hydrated, and wear light cotton clothing. Special precautions have been recommended for children, the elderly, and those suffering from illnesses.
The Animal Husbandry Department has also issued an advisory urging livestock owners to keep animals in shaded areas, ensure adequate water supply, and avoid grazing during the afternoon hours.
In rural areas of Jaisalmer, Monday witnessed the harshest heatwave conditions of the season so far. The city's maximum temperature crossed 46 degrees Celsius for the first time this season, severely affecting daily life. The intense sunlight and scorching winds made conditions unbearable from the morning itself, and by afternoon, roads wore a deserted look as residents stepped out only for essential work.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Living in California, I've experienced heatwaves, but 47°C forecast is brutal. The fact that even phones are shutting down shows how extreme this is. Prayers for everyone in Jaisalmer and surrounding areas. 🙏
Honestly, the government should do more—provide cooling shelters and ensure water availability in rural areas. Just issuing advisories isn't enough when people have no choice but to work outdoors. Still, my respect for those who manage life in such conditions.
It's interesting to see how even in 2024, extreme weather can shut down a city. The curfew-like atmosphere in Jaisalmer is a stark reminder of climate change's impact. Let's hope relief arrives soon. The livestock advisory is also important—animals suffer too.
My nani lives in a village near Jaisalmer. She says it's impossible to even step out after 10 am. The hot winds from 10 am to 8 pm are just relentless. 😢 I'm so worried about her and all the elderly there. Stay hydrated, everyone!
As someone who lived in Rajasthan for a few years, I can tell you that 46°C is no joke. The dry heat can cause heatstroke quickly. Glad they issued a yellow alert. Hopefully, the next 96 hours pass without any major incidents.
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