Ranchi, Sept 2: The monsoon has become active again in Jharkhand, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds across several parts of the state on Wednesday.
The weather system developing over the Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas is expected to influence Jharkhand over the next 48 hours. According to the IMD, the system may move west-northwestwards across the state during this period.
A heavy rain alert has been issued for 10 districts — Garhwa, Palamu, Latehar, Lohardaga, Gumla, Khunti, Saraikela-Kharsawan, East Singhbhum, Simdega and West Singhbhum.
These areas may witness heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Strong winds with speeds of 30-40 kmph are also likely in several places. The weather conditions could increase the risk of waterlogging and sudden flooding, particularly in low-lying areas.
The IMD has advised people to exercise caution during thunderstorms. Farmers have also been advised to avoid working in open fields during lightning activity.
Thunderstorm and lightning warning
The 10 districts under the alert are likely to experience thunderstorms and lightning along with heavy showers. Residents have been advised to stay away from open areas, trees and water bodies during lightning activity.
Ranchi is also likely to remain cloudy, with intermittent rain or thundershowers accompanied by gusty winds and lightning.
Heavy rain recorded in several districts
Several parts of Jharkhand received substantial rainfall on Tuesday. According to available data, Bokaro recorded 131 mm of rain, Daltonganj 97 mm and Jamshedpur 57 mm. Deoghar received around 5.6 mm of rainfall, while Ranchi also witnessed cloudy conditions and spells of rain throughout the day.
The rainfall has led to a rise in water levels in some rivers and caused waterlogging in low-lying areas. Further heavy showers could affect roads, bridges and other infrastructure in vulnerable locations.
Temperatures likely to remain moderate
With clouds and rain dominating the weather, a significant rise in temperatures is unlikely on Wednesday.
Ranchi is expected to record a minimum temperature of around 23 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 27-28 degrees Celsius. Daltonganj may see temperatures between 25 and 30 degrees, while Bokaro is likely to record around 25-31 degrees. Jamshedpur may experience temperatures between 26 and 31 degrees Celsius.
Rain may improve air quality
Rain and strong winds could also help reduce the concentration of dust particles in urban areas, potentially improving air quality.
Ranchi’s AQI was reported at around 71 on September 1, falling around the satisfactory-to-moderate range. However, air quality can vary significantly between cities and locations, and a uniform live AQI reading for the entire state is not available.
Relief and risk for Ranchi
Ranchi and other elevated areas are likely to experience relatively pleasant weather, with temperatures staying around 27-28 degrees Celsius during the day. Cloud cover, intermittent rain and light winds are expected to provide relief from the heat.
However, residents are advised to take the lightning warning seriously and avoid open spaces, trees and water bodies during thunderstorms.
Overall, Jharkhand is likely to experience a mix of relief from the heat and weather-related risks on Wednesday. While rainfall may bring cooler conditions, heavy showers, lightning and strong winds could create hazardous conditions in several districts.
