The scorching heat of summer has descended upon Rajasthan, with temperatures in many regions soaring close to 43 degrees Celsius. The arid landscapes of western Rajasthan are feeling the brunt of the sun's intensity, signaling the onset of the summer season. The Meteorological Department has issued a warning of a heatwave set to grip the state starting Wednesday, heightening concerns for residents.

Barmer emerged as the hottest city in Rajasthan on Monday, with the mercury touching 42.9 degrees Celsius. Several other areas across the state witnessed temperatures surpassing the 42-degree mark, indicative of the escalating heatwave conditions. Presently, there are indications of dry weather persisting for the next two to three days.

According to meteorological experts, temperatures are steadily rising across the state, with many areas experiencing sweltering conditions on Monday. Besides Jaisalmer, adjoining Barmer in western Rajasthan, temperatures soared to 42.8 degrees Celsius in Phalodi, Jalore, and Sriganganagar. Eastern Rajasthan witnessed temperatures reaching 42.5 degrees Celsius in Bharatpur. Additionally, Kota recorded 42.3 degrees Celsius, while Banasthali and Jodhpur registered 42.2 degrees Celsius. Bikaner and Churu experienced temperatures of 42.1 and 42 degrees Celsius, respectively, along with Fatehpur and Karauli.

The heatwave also enveloped other regions of Rajasthan, with temperatures hitting 41.8 degrees Celsius in Anta and Sangaria, 41.3 degrees Celsius in Dholpur and Dungarpur, and 41.2 degrees Celsius in the capital city Jaipur and Ajmer. Chittorgarh recorded 40.6 degrees Celsius, while Bhilwara experienced temperatures of 40.5 degrees Celsius. In numerous other areas, the mercury hovered close to the 40-degree mark. Mount Abu, the sole hill station in Rajasthan situated in Sirohi district, recorded the lowest temperature in the state at 31 degrees Celsius.

The Meteorological Department has issued a forecast predicting maximum temperatures ranging from 42 to 45 degrees Celsius in certain parts of Jodhpur, Bikaner, Kota, Bharatpur, and Jaipur divisions between May 8th and 10th. Heatwave conditions are anticipated during this period, with temperatures expected to soar to 43 to 45 degrees Celsius in Jodhpur and Bikaner divisions on Tuesday. Moreover, the forecast suggests the possibility of light rainfall across various divisions of the state from May 9th to 12th, offering a respite from the scorching heat.