Ranchi, Mar 17: Jharkhand experienced a sudden change in weather on Monday as rain and thunderstorms swept across Jamshedpur, Adityapur and nearby districts, offering much-needed relief from the heat. The Meteorological Department has issued Yellow and Orange Alerts for various regions, warning of thunderstorms and possible hailstorms until March 21.
According to the forecast, a yellow alert has been issued for March 19-20 in districts like Gumla, Palamu, Latehar, Lohardaga, Garhwa, Khunti, Simdega and Singhbhum, predicting moderate rainfall and thunderstorms. On March 21, an orange alert has been declared for Ranchi, Latehar, Simdega and other areas, cautioning residents about severe weather, including hailstorms and strong winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph.
Meteorologist Abhishek Anand from the Ranchi Meteorological Centre has urged people to take necessary precautions, advising, “Residents should remain indoors during thunderstorms and avoid seeking shelter under trees or near electric poles. Farmers should also refrain from going to their fields until the weather stabilizes.”
The temperature forecast for the coming days suggests fluctuating conditions, with highs ranging from 30°C to 35°C and lows between 18°C and 20°C. Authorities have emphasized the importance of staying updated on weather warnings and following safety guidelines to prevent any untoward incidents.
Meanwhile, in Jaduguda storm accompanied by rain wreaked havoc, causing significant destruction. Postal worker Anil Munda sustained a serious head injury when a stone, carried by the storm, struck him near Naurang Market while he was cycling to his village Bootgoda under Gwalkata Panchayat. He was immediately taken to UCIL Hospital for treatment.
The storm also caused severe damage in Dharm Deeh village, where several wooden electricity poles were uprooted. Repair work continued throughout the night. Many asbestos roofs, including those of homes and a temple, were blown away. Even recently installed cement electricity poles collapsed due to the strong winds.
In Nutan Deeh and Bago villages of Dhirol Panchayat, houses belonging to Soneshwar Sardar, Rajesh Sardar, Pukaru Sardar, Vishnu Sardar and Ringu Sardar lost their asbestos roofs, forcing families to take shelter in the open.
The storm also impacted UCIL Hospital, where flower pots kept for decoration were shattered. Dozens of trees were uprooted, disrupting traffic in UCIL Colony and surrounding areas. Property Department officer Mandal led a team to clear the fallen trees, restoring traffic flow.
Power supply has been disrupted in thousands of villages, plunging Jaduguda and the entire Potka block into darkness. Meanwhile, a hailstorm following the rain brought a temporary relief from the scorching heat.
