Rain, hail, thunderstorms likelyto batter state over next week

Jaipur: Thunderstorms, dust storms, rains and isolated hailstorms are expected to continue across several parts of the state over the coming week, with a fresh and stronger western disturbance likely to intensify wet weather activity starting Monday. The prolonged spell of disruptive weather is expected to keep temperatures under check and provide relief from heatwave conditions in most parts of the state.According to the local Meteorological Centre, Jaipur, Dausa, Jhunjhunu, Sikar and Alwar are likely to witness intense storms accompanied by 60-kmph winds Monday. This is likely to be followed by light showers, with the possibility of some isolated areas experiencing hailstorms.Ajmer, Bikaner and Bharatpur divisions are also likely to see thunderstorm activity Monday, with gusts of up to 70 kmph. The forecast also indicates scattered showers, winds of up to 50 kmph and reduced visibility caused by dust storms in several places.The latest spell of rain and cloudy weather in many parts of the state Sunday brought much-needed respite from the summer heat, pushing temperatures below normal. Western Rajasthan, however, remained comparatively warmer, with Phalodi recording the state's highest maximum temperature Sunday of 44.8°C.Among other districts to remain unspared by the summer sun were Chittorgarh, with a maximum temperature of 43.4°C. Jaisalmer and Sri Ganganagar registered 42.8°C each, while Kota, Bikaner and Barmer recorded maximum temperatures of 42.3°C, 42.2°C and 41.7°C, respectively.Rainfall was also reported from several districts, with Jhunjhunu receiving the most at 39.5 mm. Bikaner received 12.8 mm of rainfall, while Ajmer recorded 3 mm. Capital Jaipur received 5.2 mm of rainfall between Saturday evening and Sunday morning.The meteorological department said the oncoming spell of wet weather over the coming week is significant as it is likely to keep maximum temperatures below 44°C in most parts of the state, delaying severe heatwave conditions for now.