Today Weather Alert: Thunderstorms Hit Jharkhand
The weather has brought a significant drop in temperatures, with Daltonganj recording the highest maximum temperature at 36.6°C and Latehar recording the lowest at 17.3°C. Rainfall was reported in various parts of the state, with Latehar receiving 2.5 mm, and the IMD has issued a red alert for East Singhbhum and orange alerts for several other districts.
Jamshedpur is bracing for thunderstorms, lightning, and hail until April 18, as the Ranchi Meteorological Centre predicts widespread turbulent weather across Jharkhand, with a Western Disturbance and a trough from a cyclonic circulation contributing to the unstable conditions.
The India Meteorological Department reported light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms in different parts of the state, providing relief from heat and humidity. Ranchi experienced 1mm rainfall, leading to waterlogging and overflowing drains, while the city's maximum temperature was 33.8°C, 2.2°C below normal. The weather has already caused disruptions, with two flights diverted due to poor visibility and unstable weather at the Birsa Munda airport.
Local authorities and disaster response teams are on alert, advising people to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid sheltering under trees, and unplug electronic appliances during lightning events. Farmers are also advised to protect their crops from hail and heavy rain. The administration has requested citizens to report any incidents of damage caused by the storms, as the unpredictable weather is expected to disrupt day-to-day life, especially in rural areas.
The IMD forecast predicts light to moderate rainfall and thundershowers for April 15, with hailstorms and thunderstorm activity expected in southeastern and northeastern regions from April 16-19. As the weather continues to pose a threat, citizens are advised to stay indoors during lightning activity and follow updates from the department to avoid lightning strikes.