Jaipur, Jan 23 (IANS) Weather conditions changed across Rajasthan over the last 24 hours as rainfall accompanied by lightning, thunder and strong winds was reported at several places in the state. The highest rainfall of 13.0 mm was recorded in Pushkar (Ajmer).

Light to moderate fog was also observed in parts of the state.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow alerts for thunderstorms, strong winds, rainfall and hailstorms in various districts. An orange alert is in force for 14 districts today, while 11 districts are under a yellow alert.

A warning for dense fog and cold wave conditions has also been issued from January 25. Jaipur witnessed the first winter rain of the season early Friday morning. Intermittent drizzle began around 5 a.m., intensifying into heavy rain by 6.30 a.m., accompanied by strong winds and thunder.

The rainfall led to a drop of 2-3 degrees Celsius in temperature, bringing back a strong winter chill.

Heavy rain also disrupted traffic in parts of the city, including Tonk Road, Malviya Nagar, Jagatpura, JLN Marg and surrounding areas. Power supply was affected briefly in some localities. Hailstorms were reported from several areas of Sikar district, including Kotri, Simarla and Sargoth, where hailstones the size of chickpeas fell for 10-15 minutes.

Similar weather conditions prevailed in districts such as Tonk, Nagaur, Alwar and Jaipur, where intermittent rain and strong winds intensified the cold.

Meanwhile, the lowest temperature was recorded in Jaisalmer in the last 24 hours, which was 6.2 degrees C, while the highest temperature was recorded in Jawai Bandh (Pali) at 29.4 degrees Celsius.

Earlier on Thursday, light rain was recorded in border districts including Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Barmer, Ganganagar and Jodhpur, while dense fog was observed in northeastern districts such as Ganganagar and Hanumangarh.

The IMD has warned that after the current rainy spell subsides, dense fog is likely to affect several districts, including Jaipur, Alwar, Bharatpur, Dausa, Nagaur, Sikar, Jhunjhunu, and Hanumangarh. Residents have been advised to remain cautious, especially during early morning and late-night hours.

–IANS

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