Jamshedpur: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms and rain in southern and eastern regions of Jharkhand over the next 24 hours. According to the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, isolated areas in these regions are likely to experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds. The maximum wind speed is expected to reach 40-50 kmph, posing a potential risk of temporary disruptions.
The weather office has issued an alert for Saturday, predicting thunderstorms and lightning in isolated places over southern and eastern Jharkhand. The situation is expected to continue on Sunday, with thunderstorms likely over southern and central parts of the state. Residents in these regions are advised to exercise caution, particularly during outdoor activities, and stay updated on weather alerts.
A Western Disturbance is presently seen as a cyclonic circulation over north Pakistan at an altitude of 3.1 to 4.5 km above mean sea level. It is accompanied by a trough aloft in the middle and upper tropospheric level. The axis of this trough is located at 5.8 km above mean sea level, extending roughly along Longitude 70°E to the north of Latitude 30°N.
Satellite images also indicate an induced cyclonic circulation over West Rajasthan, extending up to 1.5 km above mean sea level. This system is contributing to the unstable weather conditions over eastern India, including Jharkhand.
Additionally, a trough from Gangetic West Bengal to Telangana is observed, stretching from north Bangladesh to Telangana across Gangetic West Bengal, interior Odisha, and south Chhattisgarh. This trough extends up to 1.5 km above mean sea level and is influencing the cloud formation and precipitation patterns over Jharkhand.
The IMD has advised residents in affected areas to take necessary precautions against thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. People are advised to stay indoors during heavy lightning and avoid taking shelter under trees. Farmers have also been alerted to protect their crops from potential wind and hail damage.
Most parts of Jharkhand woke up to overcast skies on Friday, with moderate humidity. The daytime temperatures are expected to be pleasant, but a drop in night temperatures is anticipated after the rainfall.
“The weather is likely to improve gradually by Monday, with the disturbance moving eastward. The unexpected thunderstorms and rain are expected to provide temporary relief from the warm weather, but the gusty winds and lightning could pose challenges. The residents are urged to stay vigilant and prepared for any adverse weather developments,” said an official.
