Jamshedpur: The State is experiencing an unexpected spell of winter chill, with most districts recording minimum temperatures below 13°C due to the resurgence of northwesterly winds. The sudden shift has resulted in a sharp drop in temperature across the state, making residents pull out their woollens once again.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Chatra recorded the lowest temperature in the state today at 8.5°C, followed closely by Khunti (8.6°C) and Lohardaga (8.7°C). Simdega also felt the bite of the cold, with its mercury dipping to 9°C, while Jagannathpur in West Singhbhum recorded 9.8°C. Meanwhile, Garhwa experienced a chilly 9.3°C morning.
In urban centres, Ranchi recorded a minimum temperature of 13.1°C, while Jamshedpur reported 14.6°C. Daltonganj saw its temperature drop to 10.6°C, and Bokaro recorded 11.5°C, reflecting the widespread cooling trend across the state.
Experts at the Ranchi Meteorological Centre have attributed the sudden drop in temperature to the dominance of north westerly currents, which have resumed after a brief hiatus. “The chill has intensified due to the resumption of northerly winds, causing a sharp dip in minimum temperatures,” said an IMD official.
Despite the current cold wave, meteorologists predict a gradual rise in maximum temperatures over the next three days. “We expect daytime temperatures to improve as the northwesterly influence weakens. By the weekend, most places will witness a slight warming trend,” added the IMD official.
Residents across Jharkhand have been caught off guard by this sudden temperature drop, as many had already begun transitioning to summer wear. The unexpected cold spell has led to an increased demand for warm clothing, heaters, and hot beverages, especially in rural and hilly areas where the chill is more pronounced.
Farmers, too, are closely monitoring the weather changes, as sudden temperature fluctuations could impact Rabi crops, including wheat and pulses, which are currently at the harvesting stage. “The cold is unexpected at this time of the year. We hope it does not last too long, as it could delay the ripening process of our crops,” said a farmer.
