Under the influence of an active Western Disturbance, Rajasthan experienced sudden weather changes on Friday, including heavy rainfall, hailstorms, and strong winds in various districts. The northern parts of the state, particularly Sri Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner, were significantly affected by heavy rain and hailstorms, leading to damage to standing crops. In Churu’s Sardarshahar, strong gusty winds caused a massive dust storm, while Jaipur remained overcast throughout the day.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted thunderstorms with rain and strong winds in parts of Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Ajmer, Bharatpur, Kota, and Udaipur divisions, with gusts up to 40–50 km/h. Additionally, isolated hailstorms are expected in some areas, raising concerns among farmers. Sri Ganganagar witnessed severe weather conditions with strong winds, rain, and a heavy hailstorm that caused significant damage to crops and infrastructure, resembling snow-covered regions like Kashmir.
The sudden hailstorms also affected Nachna (Jaisalmer), Arjunsar (Bikaner), Hanumangarh, and Ajmer, with heavy rain and hail reported in these areas. The Jaipur Meteorological Centre has issued warnings for severe storms, heavy rainfall, and isolated hailstorms in several divisions and regions on April 4. While weather conditions may ease slightly on April 5–6, a stronger Western Disturbance is expected from April 7, likely leading to more storms and rainfall across Rajasthan.
Farmers have been advised by the Meteorological Department to take precautions, such as safely storing harvested crops, covering grains in storage areas, and protecting produce from potential rain and hail damage. The department highlighted the high risk to exposed crops and agricultural produce due to the ongoing and upcoming weather activities.
