5 die as temperature touch 48 in Rajasthan

Jaipur, May 6 (UNI) Rajasthan is reeling under an intense heat wave with temperature touching 48 degree centigrade in Ganganagar today.

Five people from different areas in the state are reported to have died over the past two days, succumbing to the rising heat.

According to sources, three people died in Pali district while one each died in Jodhpur and Jaipur yesterday. Jaipur's Pappu Kahar, 35, a native of Bihar, died of heat stroke.

The strong dust-laden winds blowing the entire day are forcing people to stay indoors. Only those who cannot avoid an important errand are venturing out to brave the heat.

The temperatures are hovering between 44 degrees centigrade to 48 degrees in different districts in the state. Ganganagar was sizzling at 48 degree today, the highest recorded this season.

Churu recorded 47 degrees, while Jaisalmer, Dholpur, Barmer, Jhalawar were all sweltering at 46 degree. Bikaner, Kota, Rawatbhata Bharatpur, Pilani, Sawai Madhopur were a degree less at 45 degrees.

While Ajmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur and capital Jaipur were hot at 44 degrees.

According to weather officials, the temperatures will continue to rise in the state. Dust storms and heatwave are likely to persist in the state over the next 24 hours.

UNI RRT SY VC1650