Rajasthan is grappling with severe cold conditions, compounded by rain and hailstorm warnings issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Dense fog has enveloped various regions, significantly reducing visibility and impacting daily activities.
On December 26, visibility dropped to dangerous levels, particularly in Jaipur, where it fell to approximately 200 meters at 7 am. Even as the day progressed, the fog lingered, obscuring sunlight and causing traffic disruptions. 'Dense fog persisted across the state, forcing vehicles to move at reduced speeds,' reported IANS.
Temperature readings across the state have been alarming, with Fatehpur Shekhawati recording lows of just 3.5°C. Across seven cities, the IMD noted minimum temperatures dipped below 10°C, highlighting the bone-chilling conditions. Notably, Mount Abu registered 3.8°C, underscoring Rajasthan's chilly embrace.
The meteorological department has forecast rain over the next few days, expecting it to peak on December 27. Rain is likely to affect 18 districts, including major centers like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Kota. 'Rain is likely in 18 districts, starting Thursday,' stated the IMD. This inclement weather is anticipated as the result of a new western disturbance impacting the region.
Despite the harsh temperatures, holiday celebrations have persisted, particularly around popular locales such as Fateh Sagar and busy city malls, where people sought to enjoy festive cheer. The IMD issued orange alerts for impending conditions, advising residents to take precautions.
Radheshyam Sharma, Director of the Meteorological Center in Jaipur, explained, 'An induced cyclonic wind system has become active over southeastern Rajasthan. This system will bring widespread rainfall starting Thursday, with its peak impact expected on December 27.'
Meanwhile, foggy conditions are predicted to continue until the end of December. Specifically, on December 28, rain is forecasted across regions like Kota, Bharatpur, and Bikaner, but these conditions will transition to drier weather afterward.
Rajasthan's residents are preparing for the colder days, with forecasts indicating nighttime lows could plummet to as low as 5°C or potentially lower after December 28. 'A new system is expected to become active and will be stronger than the previous one,' Sharma noted, hinting at future disturbances contributing to the cold.
Beyond Rain, hailstorms are also on the cards. Thunderstorm activity is anticipated across several areas, particularly affecting the Ajmer and Jaipur divisions. Following the western disturbance, light to moderate rainfall is predicted, though dry conditions will also persist.
This unusual weather pattern bears significant impacts, particularly for farmers and agriculture across the region, echoing concerns over potential crop damage due to the hail and frosts this winter.
While many revelers embraced the Christmas festivities, the weather’s unpredictability adds strain to communities reliant on consistent conditions for agriculture. The IMD's warnings serve as not just forecasts but reminders of the challenges posed by the changing climate.
Overall, Rajasthan residents stand resilient as they navigate the cold wave, bracing for the rain and hailstorms on the horizon, highlighting both the favorable and adversarial facets of nature as it dramatically alters their holiday season.
