Jaipur, May 24 – With the monsoon already arriving eight days early over southern India, Rajasthan is expected to see its first seasonal showers around June 20, five days ahead of the usual June 25 timeline. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed this accelerated schedule, citing favorable atmospheric conditions driving faster monsoon progression.
However, this relief is still weeks away for the desert state currently enduring extreme summer heat, with temperatures soaring above 48°C in parts of western Rajasthan and minimum night-time temperatures crossing 30°C in several cities.
Heatwave Red and Orange Alerts Issued
On Friday, Jaisalmer recorded the highest temperature of the season at 48°C, with Barmer close behind at 47.5°C. Bikaner, Churu, Jodhpur, and Sri Ganganagar also reported sweltering highs above 44°C.
The IMD has issued a red alert for Bikaner and Churu, warning of severe heatwave conditions, while an orange alert has been sounded in Sri Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, Jodhpur, Barmer, Jaisalmer, Sikar, and Jhunjhunu. The extreme heat is making day and night unbearable for residents across the region.
According to Radheyshyam Sharma, Director of the Jaipur Meteorological Centre, western Rajasthan—particularly Barmer, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Sri Ganganagar, Phalodi, and Churu—is expected to experience intensifying heat and severe heatwave conditions over the next three days. Night temperatures in these cities are also projected to remain unusually high.
Rain and Thunderstorm Alert in 22 Districts
While western Rajasthan suffers from relentless heat, eastern Rajasthan is expected to see some relief. The IMD has issued a rain and thunderstorm alert for 22 districts, including Jaipur, Kota, Udaipur, and Bharatpur divisions, forecasting afternoon-to-evening thunderstorms and rainfall for the next 2–3 days.
This localized weather variation signals pre-monsoon activity, which typically precedes the main southwest monsoon entry.
Civic Measures Underway as Heat Grips Cities
In cities like Bikaner, local authorities have taken steps to mitigate heat stress. The municipal corporation has installed green shade covers at key public locations such as the KEM Road railway crossing to offer relief to pedestrians.
In the Shekhawati region, including Sikar, daytime activity has slowed significantly. Scorching heat has left markets deserted during peak hours as residents prefer to stay indoors.
Monsoon May Bring Relief, But Until Then, Caution Advised
Though the early monsoon forecast brings hope, the state is still in the grip of extreme temperatures. Authorities have advised residents to stay hydrated, avoid travel during the day, and take shelter from the sun wherever possible.
With monsoon expected to enter Rajasthan by June 20, the coming weeks will be crucial as both the heatwave and storm systems coexist, creating dynamic weather conditions across the state.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.