A western disturbance has worsened the problems of farmers in Rajasthan, with a blanket of hail covering the fields, destroying crops.

News Topical, Digital Desk : A western disturbance brought a sudden change in the weather in Rajasthan on Friday. Strong winds, heavy rain, and hailstorms troubled farmers and residents alike. Northern Rajasthan was the hardest hit.

Under the influence of an active western disturbance, parts of Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Ajmer, Bharatpur, Kota and Udaipur divisions witnessed heavy thunderstorms with winds of up to 40-50 kmph and rain. Hailstorms were also reported in some areas.

Sri Ganganagar recorded the highest rainfall.

According to the Jaipur Meteorological Department (IMD), Padampur in Sri Ganganagar recorded the highest rainfall of 11.5 mm. Sriganganagar, Hanumangarh, Bikaner, and Jaisalmer districts also recorded isolated heavy rains over the past 24 hours. In many areas, hailstorms accompanied by strong winds blanketed fields.

A dust storm engulfed the entire sky in Sardarshahar, Churu. Jaipur remained overcast throughout the day, and several districts, including Ajmer, Sikar, and Nagaur, experienced showers.

Heavy rain and thunderstorm warning issued

The Meteorological Department has issued a warning for heavy thunderstorms, rain, and isolated hailstorms on April 4 (Saturday) in Udaipur, Ajmer, Kota, Jaipur, Bharatpur divisions, and some districts of the Shekhawati region. Weather activity is expected to ease slightly on Sunday (April 5) and Monday (April 6). On April 7, another strong western disturbance may activate, bringing another round of heavy thunderstorms and rain to many parts of the state.

Instructions for securing ready crops

The hailstorm that struck the Arjunsar and Rajiasar areas of Sri Ganganagar at around 3:15 pm completely whitened the fields. Local farmers say it's been years since such heavy hailstorms have occurred. Wheat and other crops have suffered significant damage.

The Meteorological Department advises that ripe crops, grains and commodities kept in the open in agricultural markets and paddy markets should be covered or stored in a safe place so that they are not damaged by rain and hailstorm.

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