Weather Forecast and Alerts
Yellow Alert for 23 Districts
Due to a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for 23 districts in Rajasthan, effective August 21, 2025. The affected districts include Ajmer, Alwar, Banswara, Baran, Bharatpur, Bhilwara, Bundi, Chittorgarh, Dausa, Dholpur, Dungarpur, Jaipur, Jhalawar, Karauli, Kota, Pratapgarh, Rajsamand, Sawai Madhopur, Sirohi, Tonk, Udaipur, Jalore, and Pali. These areas are expected to experience thunderstorms, lightning, and heavy rainfall at isolated locations.
Extended Alerts for Additional Districts
A yellow alert has also been issued for Sikar and Jhunjhunu for August 21 and 22, 2025. For the following day, August 22, the alert extends to 28 districts, including additional areas such as Jhunjhunu, Barmer, Jodhpur, and Nagaur. The IMD has forecasted light rainfall in 19 districts and heavier rainfall in Banswara and Pratapgarh on August 20, with normal rainfall expected in 21 other districts, including Ajmer, Alwar, Baran, Bharatpur, and Bhilwara, over the next four days.
Recent Weather Patterns
On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, Rajasthan experienced a mix of intense heat, humidity, and scattered showers. Light rainfall was recorded in 8-10 districts, including Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur, with Pindwara in Sirohi recording the highest rainfall at 34 mm. Sikar reported a maximum temperature of 35°C and a minimum of 26°C, while Fatehpur recorded a maximum of 37.5°C and a minimum of 26.5°C. The influence of easterly winds has slightly reduced the impact of heat and humidity, but fluctuating weather patterns have caused discomfort for residents.
Monsoon Activity and Outlook
Active Monsoon Forecast
The IMD predicts that the monsoon will remain active in Rajasthan for the next week, bringing hope for much-needed rainfall. On August 20, 2025, 23 districts are expected to see rainfall, with heavy rain warnings specifically for Banswara and Pratapgarh. The shifting weather, characterized by cloudy skies in the morning and drizzle in the afternoon, indicates a dynamic monsoon season.
Challenges from Monsoon Variability
While July saw heavy rainfall in parts of Rajasthan, August has been marked by a slowdown in monsoon activity, raising concerns about drought-like conditions in some areas. Only 12 districts have recorded normal rainfall levels this season, while others face deficits that threaten agricultural productivity.
Agricultural Impact and Farmer Concerns
Crop Damage Due to Rainfall Deficiency
The inconsistent monsoon has created significant challenges for farmers, particularly in districts like Banswara, Barmer, Bikaner, Chittorgarh, Dungarpur, Jaisalmer, Khairthal-Tijara, Kotputli-Behror, Pratapgarh, Salumber, Sirohi, and Udaipur, where rainfall remains scarce. Kharif crops, such as maize and soybean, are at risk of drying up due to insufficient water after sowing. Farmers are increasingly worried about crop failure and the potential for substantial economic losses.
Farmer Distress
The lack of timely rainfall has left fields parched, with crops on the verge of wilting. Farmers in affected districts are apprehensive about financial losses and the looming threat of debt. The absence of adequate rain has heightened the need for immediate relief measures to support agricultural communities and prevent further distress.
Regional Weather Observations
Temperature and Humidity
The interplay of clouds, drizzle, and sunshine has led to fluctuating weather conditions across Rajasthan. On Tuesday, many districts experienced intense heat and humidity, interspersed with light showers. The highest rainfall was recorded in Pindwara (Sirohi), providing some relief, but the overall weather pattern remains unpredictable, contributing to discomfort for residents.
District-Specific Impacts
In districts under the yellow alert, residents are bracing for potential heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning. The addition of districts like Barmer, Jodhpur, and Nagaur to the alert list for August 22 indicates the widespread impact of the monsoon system. Meanwhile, areas like Sikar and Fatehpur have seen relatively stable temperatures but continue to experience humid conditions.
Looking Ahead
Continued Monitoring and Preparedness
The IMD and local authorities are closely monitoring the evolving weather situation, with a focus on preparing for heavy rainfall in vulnerable districts. The active monsoon forecast offers hope for improved rainfall, but the variability in precipitation patterns underscores the need for adaptive agricultural and disaster management strategies.
Support for Farmers
As the monsoon season progresses, addressing the concerns of farmers will be critical. The state government is urged to implement relief measures, including crop damage assessments and financial assistance, to mitigate the impact of rainfall deficits on agricultural communities. Ensuring timely interventions will be essential to safeguarding livelihoods and stabilizing the agricultural sector in Rajasthan.