The arrival of the southwest monsoon has completely reshaped Jharkhand's weather. Across most of the state, the sky is expected to stay overcast, with thunderstorms, rain and gusty winds on the cards. The Ranchi meteorological department has issued storm and lightning warnings for several districts, and in some pockets winds could reach speeds of 50 to 60 kilometres per hour.
The 17 Districts on Rain Watch
According to the Ranchi weather office, a rain alert has been issued today for 17 districts, including Ranchi, Khunti and Gumla. The full list covers Ranchi, Khunti, Gumla, Simdega, Pashchimi Singhbhum, Purvi Singhbhum, Saraikela-Kharsawan, Bokaro, Dhanbad, Giridih, Ramgarh, Deoghar, Jamtara, Dumka, Godda, Pakur and Sahibganj, where light to moderate rain is likely. Many places may also see showers accompanied by thunder and lightning. With the monsoon turning more active, the chance of rain is highest across the central and southern parts of the state.
Storm and Lightning Threat in 11 Districts
Eleven districts, including Ranchi, have been put on separate alert for strong winds and lightning. Ranchi, Bokaro, Dhanbad, Giridih, Ramgarh, Khunti, Gumla, Simdega, Purvi Singhbhum, Pashchimi Singhbhum and Saraikela-Kharsawan could face winds blowing at 50 to 60 km/h. People have been advised to keep away from open fields, trees and electricity poles during such conditions.
Where the Heat Will Persist
Despite the rain activity, parts of the state will keep baking. Temperatures may stay relatively high in stretches of Palamu, Garhwa, Chatra and Latehar. Recent figures from the Ranchi weather department show that Daltonganj (Palamu) remains among the hottest spots in the state, where the maximum temperature could hover around 38 to 40 degrees Celsius. Garhwa and Chatra are also set to feel the heat.
Where the Weather Will Turn Pleasant
Thanks to the clouds and rain, the weather is expected to be relatively pleasant in Ranchi, Khunti, Simdega, Gumla, Lohardaga, Pashchimi Singhbhum and Purvi Singhbhum. Maximum temperatures here are likely to stay between 30 and 33 degrees Celsius. The monsoon winds are expected to bring people relief from the humidity and the scorching heat.
What the Last 24 Hours Looked Like
Over the past day, several districts in Jharkhand recorded light to moderate rain. The monsoon's impact turned the weather around in Ranchi and its surrounding areas. The weather department says rain activity was seen across various districts, pulling temperatures down and giving people respite from the heat. Clouds hung over Ranchi and several other districts through the day, with thundery rain in some places.
