PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, May 15: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has extended its thunderstorm and lightning alert across Jharkhand till May 21, warning of gusty winds reaching 40–60 kmph, lightning strikes and isolated heatwave conditions in parts of the state.
According to the latest weather bulletin, thundershowers accompanied by lightning and strong winds are likely over most districts of Jharkhand during the next several days. The intensity of the weather activity is expected to peak over north-eastern and adjoining central districts, including Dhanbad, Koderma, Hazaribagh, Bokaro, Ramgarh and Ranchi, on May 17 and 18. Wind speeds during this period may touch 50–60 kmph.
The IMD has also issued a heatwave alert for north-western Jharkhand, particularly in Garhwa, Palamu, Chatra and Latehar districts, where high temperatures are expected to continue alongside thunderstorm activity.
Low-pressure system influencing weather over eastern India
Meteorologists said the changing weather pattern is being driven by a well-marked low-pressure area over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal, which continues to influence atmospheric conditions over eastern India.
An active east-west trough extending from West Madhya Pradesh to North Bangladesh, along with a cyclonic circulation over Bihar, is further intensifying weather instability across Jharkhand.
Day-wise weather forecast for Jharkhand
May 15 and May 19
Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph are likely across most parts of the state, except some north-western districts.
May 16
Statewide thunderstorm activity is expected, while heatwave conditions are likely in Garhwa and Palamu.
May 17 and May 18
Stronger thunderstorm activity with wind speeds of up to 60 kmph is likely over Ranchi and adjoining north-eastern districts. Heatwave conditions may persist in north-western Jharkhand.
May 20 and May 21
Thunderstorms and lightning are likely over north-eastern and central parts of Jharkhand.
IMD advisory
The IMD has advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorms and avoid open spaces during lightning activity. People have also been urged to take necessary precautions against strong winds and sudden weather changes.
