PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, May 8: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has extended its forecast of thunderstorms, rain, lightning, hailstorms and strong gusty winds across Jharkhand till May 14, warning of continued unstable weather conditions in several districts.
According to the IMD forecast, isolated places in the north-eastern and central parts of Jharkhand, especially the Dhanbad region, are likely to witness thunderstorms accompanied by hailstorms and gusty winds reaching speeds of 50–60 kmph on May 8.
The remaining parts of the state may experience thunderstorms, lightning and winds blowing at speeds of 40–50 kmph.
Hailstorm and Strong Wind Alert for Ranchi, Bokaro, Hazaribagh
On May 9, similar weather conditions are expected over the central belt covering Hazaribagh, Bokaro, Ramgarh, Ranchi and Khunti districts. Isolated places in these areas may witness hailstorms along with strong winds of 50–60 kmph.
Other regions are also likely to receive thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds during the period.
From May 10 onwards, thunderstorm and lightning activity with wind speeds of 40–50 kmph is expected to continue across several parts of Jharkhand.
While most regions are likely to remain under unstable weather conditions till May 14, the north-western parts of the state may witness comparatively less activity on May 11 and 12.
Why Jharkhand is Witnessing Frequent Thunderstorms
Meteorologists attributed the changing weather pattern to multiple atmospheric systems affecting eastern India.
An active trough extending from central Pakistan to northwest Bangladesh through Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, along with an upper air cyclonic circulation over southwest Uttar Pradesh, is influencing weather conditions over Jharkhand.
Another trough extending towards Odisha through Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh is also supporting moisture incursion and thunderstorm development.
IMD Advisory During Thunderstorms
The IMD has advised people to remain alert during thunderstorm activity, avoid taking shelter under trees, and stay indoors during lightning and hailstorms.
