Jaipur, June 4 : The Meteorological Centre, Jaipur on Thursday issued a weather alert for several districts of Rajasthan, warning of rain, thunderstorms and strong winds over the next three hours. A 'yellow alert' has been sounded for Bikaner, Sri Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, Bhilwara, Bundi, Kota, Baran, Jhalawar and Chittorgarh districts.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), these areas are likely to witness light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorm activity, while wind speeds may touch 30 to 40 kmph.

The department has advised residents, particularly those in open areas, to remain cautious during the weather activity. While the sudden change is expected to bring relief from the prevailing heat, strong winds and lightning could pose risks in vulnerable locations.

Meteorologists have attributed the changing weather conditions to an active western disturbance affecting the region.

The system is expected to trigger widespread thunderstorm and rainfall activity across several parts of Rajasthan over the coming days.

According to the latest forecast, weather conditions are likely to remain unstable from June 4 onwards, with the possibility of strong thunderstorms, rain and isolated hailstorms in parts of the Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bharatpur, Ajmer, Udaipur and Kota divisions.

During this period, winds may strengthen further, reaching speeds of 60â??70 kmph in some areas. Moderate to heavy rainfall is also expected in several districts, while isolated pockets of eastern Rajasthan could witness hailstorm activity. The anticipated spell of rain and cloud cover is expected to bring a noticeable drop in temperatures across the state.

The Meteorological Department has indicated that maximum temperatures in most regions are likely to remain below 43 degree Celsius over the next week, offering relief from severe heat and heatwave conditions.

According to the department's daily forecast, rainfall activity is likely at several places in the Jaipur, Udaipur, Ajmer, Bharatpur and Kota divisions on June 5â??6.

Light rainfall is also possible in parts of the Bikaner division from June 5â??6. Further, isolated rain activity may continue in parts of Jaipur and Bharatpur divisions on June 7.

Also, on June 8â??9, weather conditions are expected to turn largely dry across the state.

The Meteorological Department has advised farmers, motorists and the general public to remain alert during thunderstorms, squalls and hailstorm activity.

While the rainfall may benefit preparations for the upcoming Kharif season, strong winds and hail could pose a risk to standing crops and infrastructure in some areas.

/IANS