The India Meteorological Department’s Jaipur centre has issued a short-term weather warning for several districts of Rajasthan, advising residents to take precautions as thunder, lightning and light rain are expected in parts of the state. The n owcast issued at 3pm on 1 January 2026 is valid for the next three hours and carries a yellow alert for specific districts.
Rajasthan weather alert and expectations for the coming days
The IMD named Bikaner, Alwar, Bharatpur, Churu and Dholpur among the areas most likely to experience thunder with lightning and light showers during the alert period. The advisory follows the impact of a western disturbance that brought scattered rainfall across several divisions in the last 24 hours.
Local meteorological records show measurable rain in parts of Jodhpur, Bikaner, Ajmer, Jaipur and Bharatpur divisions. The highest reported rainfall in the recent spell was 26 millimetres at Sridungargarh in Bikaner district, according to the weather centre.
While light rain is possible in parts of Jaipur and Bharatpur divisions on 1 January, the rest of the state is expected to remain largely dry. The IMD urged people to remain alert to sudden changes in weather and to follow updates through official channels.
Fog, visibility and transport disruption risks
Over the next two to three days, dense to very dense fog is likely to affect large parts of Rajasthan. Visibility in some areas could fall below 100 metres, presenting a clear hazard for both road and rail travellers. Authorities have warned that persistent fog may cause delays and urged commuters to allow extra travel time and to exercise caution when driving.
Temperature fall and cold wave warning
The IMD forecasts a drop in daytime maximum temperatures by 3–4°C due to the foggy conditions. Between 4 and 6 January, minimum temperatures in the Shekhawati region may fall by 2–4°C, raising the possibility of cold wave conditions in some localities. Vulnerable groups, especially the elderly and those without adequate shelter, were advised to take steps to keep warm.
Public safety advice and official guidance
The Jaipur weather centre appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary travel during spells of poor visibility, thunder and lightning. Farmers and those working in open fields were specifically advised to delay outdoor work when thunderclouds are present and to seek shelter during lightning activity.
Local administrations and emergency services are expected to monitor conditions and issue further advisories if the situation changes. The IMD recommended that residents keep an eye on the department’s official website and weather bulletins for the latest updates and follow instructions issued by district authorities.
In summary, the immediate threat is short-lived but the follow-on impacts of fog and falling temperatures may disrupt travel and affect daily routines. Residents in affected districts should take sensible precautions and stay informed as conditions evolve.
Key Takeaways:
- IMD Jaipur issues a short-term yellow alert for parts of Rajasthan; residents should heed local warnings and avoid unnecessary travel.
- Rajasthan weather alert includes the possibility of thunder, lightning and light rain in Bikaner, Alwar, Bharatpur, Churu and Dholpur.
- Dense to very dense fog is expected over the next 2–3 days with visibility under 100 metres, likely to disrupt road and rail services.
- Temperatures are forecast to drop 3–4°C with a risk of cold wave in parts of Shekhawati between 4–6 January.
