An intense cold wave has tightened its grip on a town in Rajasthan, where temperatures plunged to a bone-chilling minus 7 degrees Celsius, creating icy conditions rarely seen in the desert state. The extreme cold has left residents struggling to cope as water sources froze overnight and large parts of the town were blanketed with ice.
Locals woke up to frozen water pipes, ice-coated rooftops, and a sharp drop in visibility during the early morning hours. Even basic daily activities were disrupted as stored water turned solid and thin layers of ice formed on roads, open containers, and vehicles. Residents described the cold as unusually harsh, with biting winds making conditions feel even colder.
The sudden temperature drop is being attributed to a strong cold wave sweeping across northwestern India. Weather experts say clear night skies and icy winds from northern regions have contributed to the dramatic fall in mercury. Such sub-zero temperatures are considered extremely rare for Rajasthan, which is more commonly associated with hot and arid conditions.
The severe cold has raised concerns for vulnerable groups, including elderly residents, children, and daily wage workers. Farmers are also worried about potential damage to crops, particularly vegetables and mustard fields, which are sensitive to frost. In some areas, frost deposits were clearly visible on plants during the early hours, heightening fears of agricultural losses.
Local authorities have urged residents to take precautions, advising people to stay indoors during early mornings and nights, wear layered clothing, and ensure proper heating where possible. Emergency services have been placed on alert, and arrangements are being made to provide shelter and blankets to those most affected by the cold wave.
Schools in nearby areas reported lower attendance as parents kept children indoors to protect them from the extreme weather. Markets and public spaces also saw reduced activity, with many shops opening later than usual due to the freezing conditions.
Meteorologists say the cold spell may persist for the next few days, with night temperatures expected to remain well below normal. While a gradual rise in daytime temperatures is likely, mornings are expected to stay icy until winds shift and cloud cover increases.
As Rajasthan grapples with this unusual weather event, residents are bracing for more cold nights ahead. The deep freeze serves as a stark reminder of how extreme weather patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable, even in regions traditionally known for warmer climates.
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