Sun Sizzles in Rajasthan: Barmer Scorches at 46.4°C, Heatwave Grips the State

Barmer Emerges as Hottest City in India

Rajasthan is reeling under an intense heatwave as temperatures skyrocket across the state. On April 8, Barmer recorded a blistering 46.4°C, making it the hottest city in India. Alongside Barmer, Jaisalmer also crossed the critical 45°C threshold, further confirming the extreme summer onset in western India. The minimum temperature in Barmer was also alarmingly high at 31.5°C, offering little relief during nighttime hours.

The scorching heat has made life increasingly difficult for residents, animals, and birds alike. With the exception of Mount Abu and Sangaria, nearly all major cities in Rajasthan recorded daytime temperatures above 40°C. Meteorologists warn that the heatwave will persist for at least the next 48 hours, with conditions likely to remain severe.

State-Wide Temperature Surge: 11 Cities Record Tropical Nights

According to data from the Meteorological Department, nighttime temperatures in 11 key cities—including Ajmer, Bhilwara, Jaipur, Sikar, Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Churu—surpassed 25°C, resulting in unusually hot nights termed “tropical nights.” These elevated nighttime readings are 3 to 8 degrees above normal, compounding the daytime discomfort.

In Jaipur, temperatures are steadily climbing, with the city recording a maximum of 42°C and a minimum of 26.2°C. Officials expect the heat to intensify further on Wednesday, although some temporary relief may come with light cloud cover predicted for April 10 and 11.

Relief on the Horizon: Western Disturbance May Cool Temperatures

IMD Director Radheshyam Sharma has indicated that a new western disturbance is likely to affect Rajasthan’s western and northern districts from April 10 to 11, bringing chances of thunderstorms, light rain, and gusty winds. This weather event could lead to a 2 to 3°C drop in temperatures, potentially ending the current wave of extreme heat.

Cities currently experiencing the most extreme temperatures include:

• Barmer 46.4°C

• Jaisalmer 45°C

• Chittorgarh 44.5°C

• Bikaner 44.4°C

• Churu, Ganganagar, Phalodi 44.2°C

• Kota 43.5°C

• Pilani 43.1°C

• Jodhpur, Bhilwara 43°C

Residents are advised to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun until the weather conditions stabilize.