Rajasthan Rain Alert: IMD Forecasts Showers in 12 Western Districts Over 48 Hours

IMD issues a rain alert for Rajasthan as scattered showers are forecast across western districts. Check the latest weather update and rainfall outlook

Rajasthan, known for its arid climate and extreme temperatures, is set to witness a change in weather as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a rain alert for several western districts of the state. According to the latest forecast, scattered showers are likely to occur over the next few days, bringing much-needed relief from rising temperatures and dry conditions.

The alert comes at a crucial time when large parts of western Rajasthan, including desert regions, have been experiencing above-normal heat and prolonged dry spells. While the rainfall is not expected to be widespread or heavy, meteorologists say even light to moderate showers can significantly improve local weather conditions, lower temperatures, and help reduce dust levels in the atmosphere.

The IMD has predicted scattered rainfall across multiple districts in western Rajasthan, citing favorable atmospheric conditions. These showers are expected to be intermittent and localized, meaning not all areas will receive rainfall simultaneously or in equal measure.

Districts likely to be affected include:

Jaisalmer
Barmer
Bikaner
Jodhpur
Jalore
Pali
Sirohi
Nagaur
Churu
Hanumangarh
Ganganagar
Jaisalmer
Jodhpur Rural

The forecast suggests that rainfall activity may begin within the next 24 to 48 hours and could continue for up to three days.

Daytime temperatures between 34°C and 39°C
Night temperatures around 20°C to 24°C
Low humidity levels ranging from 20% to 35%
Clear to partly cloudy skies
Hot and dry winds during the afternoon

The heat intensity has been rising steadily, especially in desert districts like Barmer, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner, where daytime temperatures have crossed 38°C in some areas.

Meteorologists have identified several factors contributing to the upcoming rainfall in western Rajasthan:

Western Disturbance
A weak western disturbance is moving across northwest India, influencing weather patterns in Rajasthan.
Cyclonic Circulation
A low-level cyclonic circulation over central Pakistan and adjoining areas is pulling moisture into western Rajasthan.
Moisture Influx from the Arabian Sea
Increased moisture from the Arabian Sea is interacting with dry desert air, creating favorable conditions for cloud formation.
Upper Air Trough
An upper air trough extending across northwest India is enhancing atmospheric instability.

These combined factors are expected to trigger scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms in some districts.

Rainfall is likely to be light to moderate in intensity
Thunderstorms may accompany rainfall in isolated pockets
Wind speeds could increase to 30–40 km/h during storm activity
Some areas may experience brief dust storms before rain

While widespread flooding is not expected, localized waterlogging could occur in low-lying areas.

Day 1 (Next 24 Hours)

Partly cloudy skies
Light showers in Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bikaner, and Jodhpur
Temperature drop of 2–3°C
Gusty winds in isolated areas

Day 2

Increased cloud cover
Scattered rainfall across additional western districts
Isolated thunderstorms
Cooler daytime temperatures

Day 3

Gradual reduction in rainfall activity
Patchy showers in remaining pockets
Clearing skies by evening

Maximum temperatures could drop by 3°C to 5°C
Night temperatures may fall slightly
Reduced heatwave-like conditions
Improved comfort levels for residents

Desert regions that have been struggling with extreme daytime heat will particularly benefit from this temporary cooling effect.

Dust storms
Strong gusty winds
Temporary reduction in visibility
Thunder and lightning

These conditions are typical during pre-monsoon rainfall events in desert regions.

Positive Effects:

Improved soil moisture
Relief for rabi crops nearing harvest
Better conditions for early sowing of summer crops
Reduced irrigation demand

Possible Challenges:

Damage to harvested crops if rain is sudden
Lodging of standing crops
Waterlogging in low-lying farmland

Farmers are advised to take precautionary measures, such as covering harvested produce and ensuring proper drainage.

Stay updated with local weather alerts
Avoid unnecessary travel during thunderstorms
Drive cautiously on wet or dusty roads
Secure loose objects outdoors
Take shelter during lightning or strong winds

Those traveling through desert highways should be particularly cautious of reduced visibility during dust storms.

Rajasthan is one of India’s driest states, and rainfall outside the monsoon season is always significant. Even light showers can:

Improve groundwater recharge
Reduce dust and air pollution
Lower surface temperatures
Improve livestock conditions
Boost local morale

Such pre-monsoon rainfall often plays a crucial role in preparing the region for the upcoming summer season.

Settling dust particles
Reducing PM10 and PM2.5 levels
Improving visibility
Making the air feel fresher

Cities like Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Barmer, which frequently face dust pollution, may see noticeable improvement.

Rajasthan is likely to experience normal to slightly above-normal temperatures in the coming weeks

Heatwave conditions may reappear after the rainfall spell

Pre-monsoon thunderstorms are likely to increase in frequency in May and June

The southwest monsoon is expected to arrive on time

While the upcoming showers will bring temporary relief, they are not sufficient to end Rajasthan’s dry conditions entirely. Meteorologists caution that:

Rainfall will be scattered and localized
Dry weather may return after 2–3 days
Water scarcity issues will persist
Heat conditions may intensify again

However, even short-lived rainfall spells can provide valuable short-term benefits.

For residents of western Rajasthan, the IMD rain alert offers a brief respite from the rising heat and dryness. The scattered showers will bring:

Cooler temperatures
Temporary improvement in air quality
Relief from dust
Better comfort levels

At the same time, people should remain cautious about thunderstorms, gusty winds, and possible dust storms.

Rajasthan Rain Alert: IMD Forecasts Showers in 12 Western Districts Over 48 Hours