Raj scorches under heatwave, acute water crisis deepens in several dists

Jaipur: Rajasthan continued to reel under intense heatwave conditions, Saturday, with maximum temperatures crossing 41°C in most parts of the state for the second consecutive day. Kota recorded the highest at 44.3°C, while Jaipur sizzled at 41.4°C—3.6°C above normal.

The meteorological department reported only marginal relief, forecasting a dip of 2–4°C over the next 24 hours due to a mild western disturbance. However, officials warned that a severe heatwave is likely to return from Tuesday, especially in western districts such as Barmer, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner.

"A fresh western disturbance brought dust storms and light showers to some areas in the Jodhpur division on Saturday afternoon, which slightly cooled the temperatures. But the impact is short-lived," said an official from Jaipur met office.

Meanwhile, several districts are facing worsening water shortages. The situation is critical in Barmer, Jaisalmer, Alwar, Dausa, Bhilwara, Ajmer, and Jodhpur, where villagers are relying on tanker water supply. Even parts of Jaipur are now dependent on tankers. "Many rural areas in dark zones are reporting serious drinking water scarcity," a local official said.

Despite some cities such as Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Nagaur, and Dungarpur reporting sub-40°C temperatures due to sudden afternoon showers, the relief was minimal. The Met Office stated that while Sunday may bring temporary relief. However, severe heatwave conditions are likely to return by Tuesday in parts of western Rajasthan.