Jaipur, April 30 (IANS) – A severe heatwave is gripping western Rajasthan, prompting the Meteorological Department to issue a public advisory highlighting significant health risks linked to the extreme temperatures. R.S. Sharma, Director of the Jaipur Meteorological Centre, has emphasized that vulnerable populations—including the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions—are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
“Those who work outdoors for extended periods or are exposed to direct sunlight are especially at risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke,” Sharma warned. He also pointed out the wider implications of the ongoing heatwave, noting that the intense heat can severely stress crops and vegetables, threatening agricultural output. Livestock, birds, and wildlife are similarly at risk from the soaring temperatures.
In light of these conditions, Sharma urges residents to take precautions by staying indoors during peak heat hours and seeking refuge in shaded or cooler environments. He stressed the importance of hydration, recommending not just water but also traditional beverages like lassi and nimbu pani, along with Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) to replenish the electrolytes lost through sweating.
Farmers are advised to implement measures to safeguard livestock, including providing shaded shelters and ensuring access to fresh water, while scheduling irrigation during cooler hours. The same precautions should apply to protecting birds and wildlife.
As of this week, Rajasthan is experiencing extreme heat, with Jaisalmer recording the highest maximum temperature at a scorching 46.3 degrees Celsius—4.8 degrees above the seasonal average. Bikaner marked the highest minimum temperature at 29.8 degrees Celsius, while heatwave conditions have settled over portions of the Jodhpur division.
Meteorological officials shared that no significant changes in temperature are expected in the next 48 hours, though a slight decrease of 2-3 degrees Celsius may occur afterward. Persistent heatwave conditions are anticipated in Barmer, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer, with parts of Jaisalmer and Barmer expected to be the most affected on May 1.
Some relief may be in sight starting Thursday, as forecasts suggest potential cloud cover, along with thunderstorms, drizzle, and dust storms in isolated areas across the state. Other cities reported rising temperatures, including Phalodi at 45.8 degrees Celsius, Barmer at 45.7 degrees Celsius, Chittorgarh at 44.5 degrees Celsius, Jodhpur at 44 degrees Celsius, and Kota at 43 degrees Celsius. While Gangdhar in Jhalawar district received 3 mm of rainfall on Wednesday, the majority of the state remains dry.
As the heatwave continues, the public is urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to safeguard both health and agriculture in this challenging climate.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/meteorological-dept-warns-of-health-risks-as-extreme-heat-grips-rajasthan
Category : India
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Publish Date: 2025-04-30 15:51:00
