Ranchi, Aug 29: Eleven of Jharkhand’s 24 districts have recorded deficient rainfall during the current monsoon season, with Pakur reporting the highest shortfall of 54 per cent, according to data released by the weather department.
Despite significant variations among districts, Jharkhand’s overall rainfall remains within the normal range. Between June 1 and August 28, the state received 698 mm of rainfall against a seasonal average of 778.3 mm, resulting in an overall deficit of around 10 per cent.
Meteorological officials said rainfall distribution across the state has been uneven, with large-scale climate factors and local weather conditions contributing to differences between regions.
Pakur received 408.3 mm of rainfall during the period, compared with its normal level of 878.2 mm. Deoghar recorded a 48 per cent deficiency, followed by Koderma at 40 per cent.
Garhwa and Giridih each reported a shortfall of 37 per cent, while Godda and Hazaribag recorded deficiencies of 31 per cent and 30 per cent, respectively.In contrast, six districts received surplus rainfall.
West Singhbhum recorded the highest excess precipitation, receiving around 42 per cent more rainfall than normal. Seven other districts reported rainfall within the normal range.
Officials said districts in southern and southeastern Jharkhand generally receive better rainfall due to their geographical location and the influence of moisture-bearing winds associated with the Bay of Bengal.
Areas such as West Singhbhum, East Singhbhum, Simdega and Saraikela-Kharsawan have benefited from comparatively favourable rainfall conditions, while some northeastern districts have faced larger shortfalls.
The Ranchi Meteorological Centre expects rainfall activity to increase across Jharkhand in the coming days, which could help reduce the seasonal deficit in affected districts. Widespread rainfall is forecast until September 5, with the possibility of heavy showers in several areas.
A yellow weather warning has also been issued for parts of the state between August 29 and September 1, with isolated thunderstorms, lightning and heavy rainfall expected in some districts.
The weather department has forecast heavy rainfall in parts of Dumka, Deoghar, Jamtara, Giridih, West Singhbhum, East Singhbhum, Saraikela-Kharsawan and adjoining areas of Dhanbad.Authorities have advised people to remain alert during periods of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.
