PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, March 12: Parts of Jharkhand are likely to witness Norwester activity over the next few days, bringing thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds to several districts, according to the latest weather bulletin issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
On March 12, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 30–40 kmph are likely at isolated places over the north-eastern parts of the state, the IMD said.
Weather activity is expected to remain largely subdued on March 13 and 14.
Weather Activity to Intensify From March 15
The situation is likely to become more active from March 15, when thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph may occur at isolated places across Jharkhand, except the north-western region.
ALSO READ: Jharkhand News: Groom’s friend shot at wedding after video of desi katta sparks row
On March 16, similar conditions are expected at a few places across the state.
Thunderstorm activity may continue on March 17 at isolated locations, again excluding the north-western districts.
Meteorologists attribute the developing weather pattern to a persistent upper-air cyclonic circulation over Bangladesh and adjoining Gangetic West Bengal, extending up to about 1.5 km above mean sea level.
In addition, a trough in the lower-level westerlies is currently observed between 3.1 km and 4.5 km above mean sea level along longitude 90°E to the north of latitude 22°N, influencing weather conditions over the region.
Rainfall Recorded in Past 24 Hours
During the past 24 hours, light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms was recorded at isolated places across Jharkhand.
The highest rainfall of 18.6 mm was reported from Putki.
The IMD has advised people to remain alert during thunderstorm activity, particularly due to the risk of lightning strikes and strong winds associated with Norwester conditions.