Rajasthan is bracing for a sharp and sudden weather shift as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues yellow alerts for 21 districts across the state. The Jaipur Meteorological Centre has warned of thunderstorms, lightning strikes, dust storms, and heavy rain in the coming 24 hours, with wind speeds expected to reach 60 kilometres per hour in several areas. A combination of an active western disturbance and multiple converging weather systems is pushing large amounts of moisture into the state, making the next few days critical for residents across several divisions.
The Science Behind the Sudden Change
The Jaipur Meteorological Centre points to several simultaneously active weather systems as the root cause of this disruption. A seasonal trough at sea level is currently active from Rajasthan all the way to Bihar, passing through Uttar Pradesh. A western disturbance that previously sat over northwest Punjab has now reorganised into a cyclonic circulation over northeast Punjab and nearby areas, with its influence stretching from 3.1 to 5.8 kilometres above sea level. Cyclonic circulations in the upper atmosphere over Haryana and northwest Uttar Pradesh are adding to this effect, collectively driving a substantial increase in moisture over Rajasthan and setting the stage for widespread storm activity across the state.
21 Districts Under Warning for Rain, Lightning and Storms
The IMD has flagged 21 districts in Rajasthan for thunderstorms, lightning, and rain. Of these, 18 districts including Alwar and Jaipur are particularly expected to see intense thunderstorms paired with strong dust storms. The 17 eastern districts under specific lightning and high-wind warnings include Alwar, Baran, Bharatpur, Bundi, Dausa, Deeg, Dholpur, Jaipur, Jhalawar, Jhunjhunu, Karauli, Khairthal-Tijara, Kota, Kotputli-Behrod, Sawai Madhopur, Sikar, and Tonk. In these areas, wind speeds are anticipated to stay between 40 and 50 kilometres per hour, with gusts at some locations rising to 50 to 60 kilometres per hour.
Western Districts to Face Dust Storms and Gusty Winds
In western Rajasthan, the districts of Bikaner, Churu, Didwana-Kuchaman, and Sriganganagar are expected to be significantly impacted, with gusty winds of 50 to 60 kilometres per hour forecast alongside dust storms and light to moderate rain. The broader divisions of Bikaner, Jaipur, Bharatpur, Ajmer, and Kota are expected to see the worst of the weather, with thunderstorms, high-speed winds, and moderate to heavy rainfall likely during the next 24 hours. The Jodhpur and Udaipur divisions should experience comparatively lighter rainfall with strong winds.
Intermittent Storms Expected from June 23 Through June 26
The Jaipur Meteorological Centre has indicated that storm and rain spells in the Bikaner, Jaipur, Bharatpur, and Kota divisions are likely to continue in intermittent bursts between June 23 and June 26. In contrast, some districts in southern Rajasthan may see a gradual weakening of rain activity over the same period. Meteorologists expect this extended run of unsettled weather to bring meaningful relief from the intense heat that has been gripping the state.
Safety Advice for Residents and Farmers
The IMD has urged residents to stay away from open grounds, trees, and electricity poles throughout the period of bad weather. Farmers across the affected districts have been specifically asked to move their standing crops and agricultural equipment to sheltered locations without delay. Officials expect the altered weather pattern to remain in place for the next few days, and all residents in the alerted districts are being advised to monitor weather updates closely and avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure.
