PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, January 12: A sharp winter chill has tightened its grip over Jharkhand, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning that cold wave conditions are likely to intensify across several districts between January 14 and January 16.
According to the IMD’s Realised Weather Report issued at 10 am from the Meteorological Centre at Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi, a clear cooling trend has been observed across the state, particularly in night temperatures.
Night Temperatures Drop Sharply
Based on observations recorded at 8:30 am, data shows that while daytime temperatures remain moderate in many areas, minimum temperatures have fallen significantly, pushing parts of Jharkhand into cold wave conditions.
Ranchi recorded a maximum temperature of 22.7°C and a minimum of 8.5°C, both slightly below normal. Jamshedpur remained relatively warmer with a high of 26.6°C and a low of 10.8°C.
Daltonganj reported a maximum temperature of 27.2°C, but the night turned much colder with the mercury dipping to 6.1°C. Bokaro Thermal recorded temperatures ranging from 24.2°C to 7.6°C.
Chaibasa emerged as the warmest location during the day at 28.8°C, though the night temperature dropped to 8.6°C.
Gumla Coldest in Jharkhand
Gumla recorded the lowest minimum temperature in the state at just 3.6°C, confirming severe cold wave conditions.
Automated Weather Station data further highlighted the intensity of the cold. Khunti recorded a minimum of 4.8°C, Hazaribagh 5.1°C, Simdega 6.3°C and Lohardaga 6.6°C, while Ranchi (Aero) logged 8.4°C.
Seraikela and Jagannathpur also witnessed a significant drop in night temperatures.
No Rain, Fog Adds to Discomfort
No rainfall was recorded anywhere in Jharkhand during the past 24 hours, allowing cold and dry air to dominate the region.
Fog was reported from Deoghar, where visibility dropped to 800 metres, adding to early morning discomfort for commuters and residents.
Cold Wave Alert for Several Districts
The IMD warned that the cold spell is far from over. According to the forecast, cold wave conditions are likely to prevail in isolated pockets of north-western and adjoining central parts of Jharkhand from the morning of January 14, continuing through January 15 and January 16.
Districts likely to be affected include Gumla, Khunti, Latehar, Lohardaga, Palamu, Simdega and parts of the Ranchi division.
With winter tightening its grip, residents have been advised to take adequate precautions. The IMD has urged special care for the elderly, children and people working outdoors during early morning hours.
