Rajasthan Heatwave Crisis: Sriganganagar Hottest in India at 47.6°C, Red Alert Issued in Four Cities; 17 Districts Under Heatwave Warning for May 22

Jaipur, May 21: Rajasthan continues to reel under a relentless heatwave as temperatures soared past 47°C in several parts of the state on Wednesday. Sriganganagar recorded the highest temperature in the country at a scorching 47.6°C, making it the hottest city across India. The cities of Pilani (47.2°C) and Churu (46.8°C) were not far behind, placing Rajasthan in the top three of India’s five hottest locations today.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for extreme heat in Sriganganagar, Pilani, Bikaner, and Churu over the next two days. Additionally, 17 districts are on heatwave watch for May 22, with maximum temperatures expected to range between 45°C and 48°C.

Rajasthan Heatwave Snapshot: Key Updates

• Bikaner: Temperature crossed 46°C; red alert active.

• Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ajmer, Bharatpur: Searing temperatures disrupted normal life.

• Fogging machines deployed across major Jaipur locations like Hawa Mahal, Tripolia, and Ajmeri Gate to provide temporary cooling.

• Meteorological Relief Expected Post-May 25, with the onset of Nautapa and a major weather system expected to bring storms and rain across much of Rajasthan by May 31.

Citywise Heatwave Impact & Alerts

Sriganganagar

• India’s hottest city today at 47.6°C

• Red alert for next 48 hours

Pilani (Jhunjhunu)

• Scorched at 47.2°C, ranked 3rd hottest in the country

• Red alert issued

Churu

• Reached 46.8°C by 2:30 PM

• Public resorts to scarves and towels for protection

• Hospitals set up tents for patients’ families

• IMD predicts further rise by 1–2°C in coming days

Bikaner

• Crossed 46°C; continues to be on high alert

• Streets remain deserted during peak hours

Udaipur

• Tourist spots like Fatehsagar Lake and Mumbaiya Bazaar wear a deserted look

• Afternoon temperature hit 38°C with high humidity

Jaisalmer

• Maximum at 45°C, people covering faces to avoid heatstroke

• Movement restricted during noon hours

• Yellow alert for heatwave issued; temperatures may cross 47°C in coming days

Kota

• Max temperature at 44°C, but thunderstorm and rain alert in place

• District collector instructs departments to remain on alert

Alwar

• Between 44°C to 45°C; retail shops close during afternoon hours due to extreme heat

Ajmer

• Hospitals like JLN Medical College bring in ice slabs to treat heatstroke patients

• IMD heatwave alert continues till May 25

Bhilwara

• Maximum temperature: 41°C, minimum hovering around 30°C

• City markets remain empty during peak heat hours

• Heatwave alert active for night hours as well

Sikar

• Station Road completely deserted

• Locals avoid stepping out during midday sun

Looking Ahead: Weather Forecast and Advisory

Weather experts indicate a brief relief may come starting May 25 with the onset of Nautapa, traditionally the hottest 9-day period in the Hindu calendar. However, this year, a major weather disturbance is expected to activate between May 25 and 26, potentially bringing rain and dust storms until May 31.

Precautionary Measures Advised:

• Avoid direct sun exposure between 12 PM and 4 PM

• Stay hydrated and consume light meals

• Use scarves, hats, and sunglasses outdoors

• Elderly, children, and those with medical conditions must take extra precautions

• Hospitals across Rajasthan are on alert for heatstroke emergencies