Jamshedpur: Several parts of the State experienced light rain accompanied by thunder and lightning today, triggered by the impact of a trough stretched between Jharkhand and Odisha. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) at Ranchi, this weather phenomenon was influenced by multiple disturbances affecting the region.
The Ranchi Meteorological Centre issued a nowcast (short-term forecast) this morning, predicting rain in Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Dhanbad, Ramgarh, Simdega, Khunti, and Seraikela-Kharsawan. Most of these areas woke up to overcast conditions with dense morning fog, significantly disrupting surface visibility.
The weather office also issued an alert for isolated hail over the southern and central parts of Jharkhand. Additionally, the forecast predicted thunderstorms and lightning accompanied by gusty winds. The maximum wind speed is likely to reach 40-50 kmph over south-eastern and adjoining central parts, while south-western and northern parts may witness gusts of 30-40 kmph.
IMD explained that the current weather conditions were influenced by two Western Disturbances: The first Western Disturbance is present as a cyclonic circulation over Jammu at 3.1 km above mean sea level, impacting the weather in adjoining states. The second Western Disturbance exists as a trough in the lower tropospheric level at the same altitude, roughly along Longitude 60°E to the north of Latitude 30°N.
Additionally, a trough from Jharkhand to south Odisha was observed today, extending from Gangetic West Bengal to Telangana at 0.9 km above mean sea level. This system contributed to the rain and thunderstorm activity across Jharkhand.
The Ranchi Meteorological Centre has urged residents to exercise caution, especially in regions under the hail and thunderstorm alert. The advisory also recommends staying indoors during lightning and avoiding shelter under trees.
The sudden change in weather, coupled with gusty winds and lightning, has disrupted daily activities in several regions. Commuters faced challenges due to low visibility caused by dense fog, while agricultural activities were also impacted by the unexpected rain and hail alert.
IMD predicts that overcast conditions and scattered rain may continue in parts of Jharkhand over the next 24 hours. However, the weather is expected to gradually clear up, with temperatures likely to dip slightly post-rainfall.
Residents are advised to stay updated with weather alerts and take necessary precautions during adverse weather conditions.
