Jamshedpur: The State is poised to witness a renewed and vigorous phase of monsoon activity over the next four days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds across several parts of the state. The latest meteorological developments signal a potentially disruptive weather pattern, urging residents and authorities to stay alert and prepared.
According to IMD officials, the monsoon trough presently lies over Jamshedpur and Digha and extends south eastward into the Eastcentral Bay of Bengal. This positioning, combined with the impending formation of a low-pressure system and the residual effects of Tropical Cyclone Wipha, is expected to intensify rainfall across the region.
A cyclonic circulation, believed to be the remnant of Tropical Cyclone Wipha, is likely to emerge over the north Bay of Bengal within the next 24 hours. Following this, a low-pressure area is expected to form, which could further enhance rainfall intensity and coverage over Jharkhand and neighbouring areas. These systems are likely to interact with the prevailing monsoon currents, leading to widespread moisture convergence and increased convective activity.
July 25: The first wave of intensified rainfall is expected to hit the south-eastern parts of Jharkhand, where heavy to very heavy showers are likely at isolated places. Most areas across the state, barring a few north-western districts, may experience heavy rainfall. Thunderstorms and lightning, accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph, are expected in isolated areas.
July 26: The southern and central regions of the state are likely to receive scattered heavy to isolated very heavy rainfall. The north-western districts may see a few episodes of heavy showers. Thunderstorm activity with gusty winds (30–40 kmph) will continue to prevail, potentially impacting normal life, especially in rural and semi-urban areas with weak infrastructure.
July 27: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast for the south-western parts of Jharkhand. The western and adjoining central districts are also expected to witness intense rain. Thunderstorms and lightning, along with gusty winds, will remain active in isolated locations. The cumulative effect of persistent rain may lead to waterlogging, localised flooding, and disruption in road connectivity, particularly in low-lying regions.
Despite relatively weak monsoon activity over the past 24 hours, Jharkhand has received 647 mm of rainfall so far this season, which marks a surplus of 52% compared to the normal average of 426 mm. Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms was reported at a few locations on July 23, with Ichak in Hazaribagh district recording the highest rainfall of 44 mm.
The surplus rainfall has been a mixed blessing. While it has boosted kharif sowing and filled reservoirs, prolonged spells of intense rain raise concerns over soil erosion, crop damage, and flood-like conditions in vulnerable zones.
