Jamshedpur, April 9: The relentless heat wave, which is tormenting the state since the past one week is there to stay. Unfortunately, the met department on Saturday extended the heat wave conditions in Jharkhand for another 72 hours, as the maximum temperature has crossed 4°C -5°C above normal at several places.
“Jharkhand is in grip of heat wave due to the dominating westerly winds. We don’t see any signs of rain in the next 72 hours. The maximum temperature will continue to rise. Keeping this in view we have extended the heat wave conditions,” said A K Sen, joint director of the Patna Meteorological Office.
“The severe heat conditions are due to westerly to northwesterly winds which are prevailing at lower levels over the region. Heat wave conditions would continue to prevail in parts of Chhotanagpur region during the next two days,” said the official.
But, after a brief mercury slide at a few places including Jamshedpur earlier this week due to the impact of Nor’wester, the maximum temperature has again witnessed a steep rise. In Jamshedpur, the mercury leapt from 40°C to 42°C, four notches above normal. Several other districts like Palamau, Dumka and Latehar recorded around 44°C for the second consecutive day.
Weathermen at Patna Meteorological Office predicted that due to westerly winds, day temperature will continue to witness an upward trend. “There is no possibility of rainfall in the next 2-3 days as the moisture level has come down considerably in most places across Jharkhand.
Presently, westerly wind is prevailing over Jharkhand which does not help in moisture incursion into the atmosphere,” explained a weather analyst at the Patna Meteorological office.
Heat waves and sultry weather scare vehicle riders and pedestrians, and it resulted in roads wearing a deserted look during the day.
“The heat is unbearable and the high humidity is making life miserable. We cannot stay inside our homes, so how can we concentrate on studies, “said Nidhi, a Class IX student.
The city has been sweltering for the past few days with temperatures above 40°C and wearing a deserted look. Frequent power cuts have added to the woes of residents.
Passengers and commuters have been worst hit with hot winds blowing during the day. While the elderly have been staying indoors, those who are being forced to step out for official or personal work are taking adequate precautions.