Monsoon has gathered pace across Jharkhand, and its effect is now clearly visible on the state's weather. Most districts are likely to see a marked change in conditions today. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), several districts could witness light to moderate rain along with thunder, lightning and strong winds blowing at 40 to 50 kilometres per hour. For people who have been battling humidity and scorching heat for days, this shift brings welcome relief.
Temperatures across most parts of the state are expected to stay between 33 and 41 degrees Celsius today. A total of 18 districts, including Ranchi, Khunti and Gumla, could see rain activity, while Palamu is likely to record the highest temperatures.
The 18 districts in line for rain
As per the forecast from the Ranchi weather centre, rain is possible in Ranchi, Khunti, Gumla, Simdega, Lohardaga, Ramgarh, Bokaro, Dhanbad, Giridih, Deoghar, Dumka, Jamtara, Pakur, Sahibganj, Godda, East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum and Seraikela-Kharsawan. Moderate rain is expected in some places, while a few areas could see moderate to heavy showers.
Special caution over lightning
The department has advised residents of several districts to stay alert against lightning and thunderstorms. The threat of lightning strikes is considered highest in Santhal Pargana and the districts of north-eastern Jharkhand, namely Deoghar, Dumka, Jamtara, Pakur, Sahibganj and Godda. Beyond these, Dhanbad, Giridih, Bokaro, Ranchi and the surrounding areas also face the risk of lightning accompanied by sharp thunder. With winds expected to gust at 40 to 50 kmph in many districts, people have been urged to avoid stepping out in the open.
Moisture pouring in from the Bay of Bengal
Driven by moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal, the monsoon has become active over most of Jharkhand. Monsoon activity is clearly being seen across the majority of districts in Santhal Pargana, Kolhan, South Chhotanagpur and the Ranchi division. Persistent cloud cover and intermittent rain have further strengthened the monsoon's hold. The southwest monsoon advanced between June 23 and 24 into more districts as well, including Sahibganj, Pakur, Godda, Dumka, Deoghar, Giridih and Ranchi.
Pleasant weather in these districts
In Ranchi, Khunti, Gumla, Simdega, Lohardaga, West Singhbhum and East Singhbhum, clouds and rain are expected to keep the weather relatively pleasant. Temperatures here could dip below normal, giving people solid relief from the heat.
Where it rained on Wednesday
On June 24, several districts of the state recorded light to moderate rainfall. Ranchi and its neighbouring areas remained overcast through the day, while a few districts in the Santhal Pargana and Kolhan regions saw intermittent showers. The rain pulled temperatures down and left the weather pleasant in many places.
