Severe Heatwave Grips Western India, IMD Issues Alerts for Health Risks
Etawah Today News Desk | May 13, 2025
Western India continues to reel under an unforgiving heatwave, with Jaisalmer in Rajasthan recording a staggering 48.0°C — the highest temperature in the country on Thursday, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The mercury in Jaisalmer rose 5.5°C above the normal average, signaling extreme conditions that pose significant health risks, especially to vulnerable populations.
Other Rajasthan Cities Also Bake in the Heat
The scorching conditions weren’t limited to Jaisalmer alone. Several cities across Rajasthan reported extreme temperatures well above the seasonal norm:
- Barmer: 47.5°C (+5.2°C)
- Bikaner: 46.4°C (+4.0°C)
- Phalodi: 46.2°C (+3.4°C)
- Pilani: 45.7°C (+4.9°C)
- Churu: 45.6°C (+2.9°C)
- Jodhpur: 44.5°C (+3.3°C)
- Sriganganagar: 44.1°C (+1.6°C)
- Jaipur: 43.2°C
- Ajmer: 43.1°C
At 2:30 p.m., IMD’s real-time bulletin already showed Jaisalmer at 47.4°C, indicating early and sustained heat throughout the day.
“Warm Nights” Compound Health Risks
Adding to the discomfort, “warm night” conditions were reported in several areas. These nights offer minimal cooling, increasing the likelihood of heat stress and dehydration—especially among the elderly, infants, and those with chronic health issues.
IMD Issues Yellow and Orange Alerts
The IMD has issued a Yellow Alert for Rajasthan, urging people to:
- Avoid direct sun exposure
- Wear light cotton clothing
- Stay indoors during peak hours
- Drink plenty of fluids
An Orange Alert was also issued for some regions, warning of moderate to high health risks due to continued heatwave conditions. The advisory recommends the use of ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution), lemon water, and buttermilk to prevent dehydration.
Why the Heatwave? Delayed Monsoon and Climate Change to Blame
Meteorologists attribute the intense heat to a stubborn high-pressure system and delayed pre-monsoon activity, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change. The IMD forecasts further temperature increases of 2–4°C over the next two days across Northwest India, including Rajasthan.
The department is actively sharing safety guidelines on social media (@indiametdept) and through its Heatwave Guidance Portal, which provides district-level alerts and health advisories via QR code access.
Stay Safe, Stay Hydrated
As Rajasthan braces for even more intense heat in the coming days, public health officials and local authorities remain on high alert. Residents are strongly urged to limit outdoor activities, stay hydrated, and monitor heat-related symptoms in vulnerable family members.
