Jaipur logs season’s hottest day at 43.7°C

Jaipur: Rajasthan continued to remain in the grip of an intense heatwave, Wednesday, with temperatures in many districts soaring nearly four degrees above normal. Jaipur recorded both its hottest morning and hottest day of the season so far, while Sriganganagar remained the hottest place in the state at 48.2°C.Jaipur registered a maximum temperature of 43.7°C, around two degrees above normal, while the minimum temperature settled at 32°C, making it the warmest morning of the season in the city. Roads and marketplaces wore a deserted look during the afternoon as residents avoided stepping out under the scorching sun.Pilani recorded 47°C, followed by Bikaner at 46.6°C. Jaisalmer and Churu recorded 46.4°C each, while Phalodi registered 46.2°C. Kota touched 45.4°C, Banswara 45.2°C, and Barmer and Fatehpur both recorded 45°C.Other districts also witnessed severe heat conditions, with Alwar recording 44.8°C, Lunkaransar 44.7°C, Chittorgarh 44.6°C and Jhunjhunu 44.3°C. Sangaria recorded 43.9°C, Karauli 43.8°C, while Bhilwara and Jodhpur registered 43.6°C each.The prolonged heatwave sharply increased demand for electricity and drinking water due to continuous use of coolers and air conditioners. Outdoor workers, including labourers, traffic police personnel and delivery staff, faced severe discomfort during the day.The Met office, however, predicted some relief from Thursday evening due to fresh western disturbances. Officials said Jaipur, Bharatpur, Ajmer and Bikaner divisions may witness dust storms, rainfall and lightning activity, Friday, which could lead to a slight drop in temperatures across parts of the state.