Heavy rain alert for Jamshedpur as monsoon regains strength

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, July 12: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread thunderstorm activity and heavy rainfall across parts of Jharkhand over the next few days, with East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum and Seraikela-Kharsawan among the districts likely to witness heavy rain on July 13.

According to the latest forecast issued by the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph are likely at isolated places across the state from July 13 to 16.

Heavy rainfall has been forecast at isolated places in the northeastern, adjoining central (Dhanbad), and southeastern districts, including East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum and Seraikela-Kharsawan, on July 13.

On July 14, heavy rain is likely to continue over the northeastern and adjoining central districts of the state.

Meteorologists attributed the expected increase in rainfall to a favourable synoptic situation.

The monsoon trough at mean sea level is currently passing through Sri Ganganagar, Hisar, Meerut, Shahjahanpur, Gorakhpur, Muzaffarpur and extending eastwards towards south Assam.

An upper air cyclonic circulation persists over northeast Bihar at around 3.1 Km above mean sea level, while another cyclonic circulation remains over south Bangladesh at about 5.8 Km above mean sea level.

In addition, a trough in the westerlies and another trough extending from north Bangladesh to the north Bay of Bengal have merged, creating conditions favourable for enhanced monsoon activity over eastern India.

“The existing synoptic systems are providing adequate moisture and atmospheric instability, which will support widespread thunderstorm activity and spells of heavy rainfall over parts of Jharkhand during the next 48- hours. People should remain alert during thunderstorms and avoid taking shelter under isolated trees or near electric poles,” said Abhishek Anand, Head of the Ranchi Meteorological Centre.

The IMD has advised residents, particularly those in vulnerable and low-lying areas, to exercise caution during periods of intense rainfall, lightning and gusty winds.

Local authorities have also been urged to remain prepared for possible waterlogging and localized disruptions.