The desert state of Rajasthan is currently under the grip of a relentless heatwave, with temperatures crossing the dangerous 44°C mark in several districts. As the sun beats down with summer 2026's full intensity, the local administration in Jaipur has taken decisive action to protect school children from the soaring heat.With the "Loo" (hot dry winds) picking up speed, life across the state has slowed down during the peak afternoon hours.Sri Ganganagar Records Season's Highest TemperatureBreaking all recent records, Sri Ganganagar has emerged as the hottest spot in Rajasthan. On Wednesday, the mercury touched a staggering 43.7°C, and it is expected to breach the 44°C threshold within the next 24 hours. Other cities like Churu, Kota, and Chittorgarh aren't far behind, with temperatures consistently hovering between 42°C and 43°C.The clear skies and dry northwesterly winds are acting like a furnace, making outdoor activities nearly impossible after 11:00 AM.New School Timings in Jaipur: Relief for StudentsIn response to the blistering conditions, the Jaipur District Collector has issued an urgent order to revise school schedules. To ensure that students are not exposed to the peak sun, the following changes have been implemented:Effective Date: The new timings will come into force starting April 27, 2026.Classes Affected: Pre-primary to Grade 8.Revised Schedule: Schools will now operate from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM.Higher Classes: Timings for students from Grade 9 to 12 remain unchanged for now, though they are advised to take extra precautions.Authorities have warned that any school government or private found violating these orders will face strict action under the Disaster Management Act.IMD Issues Yellow Alert for 20 DistrictsThe India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a Yellow Alert for a large part of Rajasthan, including Bharatpur, Dholpur, Jhunjhunu, and Bikaner. The forecast suggests that the heatwave will intensify over the coming weekend (April 25-26).Furthermore, residents in the Jodhpur division should brace for dust storms with wind speeds reaching up to 30 kmph, which could significantly reduce visibility and add to the discomfort.Tips to Stay Safe During the HeatwaveHealth experts recommend a "Hydration First" approach. With the UV index being extremely high, citizens are advised to:Drink plenty of water even if not thirsty.Wear light-colored, loose cotton clothing.Use hats, umbrellas, or scarves while stepping out.Keep a "Water Bell" routine for children at home to ensure frequent fluid intake.While some relief in the form of light showers is predicted for Jaipur and Bharatpur divisions around April 26, the overall outlook remains dry and scorching for the rest of the week.
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