Jamshedpur witnesses 17.4 mm rainfall, IMD warns of hailstorms and gusty winds

Jamshedpur: The city recorded 17.4 mm of rainfall this evening as thunderstorms and lightning lashed several parts of Jharkhand. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe weather alert, warning of hailstorms, thunderstorms, and strong winds across the state.

According to the latest bulletin from IMD’s Ranchi Meteorological Centre, isolated places in the southern and adjoining central parts of Jharkhand are likely to experience hail accompanied by thundershowers, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 50-60 kmph today. Additionally, thunderstorms and lightning with gusty winds of 40-50 kmph are expected in isolated locations in northern Jharkhand.

IMD has urged residents to take precautions and remain indoors during thunderstorms and lightning to avoid hazards. Strong winds could cause damage to structures, trees, and power lines, making it essential for people to stay alert.

The weather forecast for tomorrow, March 22, indicates continued thunderstorms and lightning with gusty winds (40-50 kmph) across southern, central, and north-eastern parts of the state. Meanwhile, north-western regions could experience thunderstorms and lightning with winds reaching 30-40 kmph.

Meteorologists have attributed the current weather conditions to a trough extending from a cyclonic circulation over southwest Madhya Pradesh to north Odisha across Chhattisgarh at an altitude of 0.9 km above mean sea level. Another trough/wind discontinuity from Marathwada to south Tamil Nadu, passing through Maharashtra, is also influencing the region’s weather patterns.

The sudden rainfall activity led to a drop in maximum temperatures, providing temporary relief from the rising summer heat. Several parts of Jharkhand, including Ranchi, Jamshedpur, and Daltonganj, witnessed thunderstorms and lightning last evening.

Authorities have advised citizens to stay updated with weather alerts, avoid open areas during lightning, and secure loose objects that could be affected by strong winds.