Moisture flowing in from the Bay of Bengal has triggered a noticeable shift in weather patterns across Jharkhand. State capital Ranchi along with surrounding districts is witnessing an intensifying early winter chill. Even though skies remained completely clear on Thursday, the state is now bracing for a sharp drop in night and morning temperatures.
Projected Two to Three Degree Temperature Dip
According to the latest forecast issued by the meteorological centre, minimum temperatures across the state could slide by two to three degrees Celsius over the next 24 hours. Following this initial drop, mercury levels are expected to stabilise for the subsequent four days without any drastic fluctuations. This downward shift in night-time temperatures will significantly amplify the sensation of chill during the late night and early dawn hours.
Noticeable Chill During Morning Chhath Offerings
This weather transition will have a direct bearing on the Chhath festival gatherings at water bodies. On November 15 and 16, when devotees and fasting worshippers step outside at dawn to offer arghya to the rising sun, they will encounter pronounced cold conditions. In Ranchi, minimum temperatures are projected to drop close to 13 degrees Celsius by November 15, making woollens and warm clothing essential for those gathering early by riverbanks and ponds.
Morning Fog Followed by Clear Sunshine
Over the coming days, predominantly dry and clear weather is forecast across Jharkhand. The early morning hours are likely to see moderate fog cover. As the sun climbs higher during the daytime, skies will clear up completely. While bright daytime sunshine will provide welcome comfort, brisk breezes and dropping temperatures will quickly revive the evening and morning chill.
Rainfall and Temperature Extremes Over Past 24 Hours
Looking back at the past 24 hours, mild atmospheric activity was observed across pockets of Jharkhand, with light to moderate rainfall recorded in select areas. Madhupur in Deoghar district registered the highest rainfall figure at 40.5 mm. On the temperature front, Jagannathpur logged the state's highest maximum reading at 33.5 degrees Celsius, while Gumla district recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 10.1 degrees Celsius. Meteorologists project that the ongoing slide in night temperatures will persist through mid-November.
