PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, May 25: Jharkhand continued to reel under intense summer heat on Sunday, with Daltonganj emerging as the hottest place in the state at 44°C.
Jamshedpur recorded a maximum temperature of 40.5°C, nearly 2.8 degrees above normal, during the past 24 hours. The city also witnessed an uncomfortable night, with the minimum temperature settling at 29.1°C, much above the seasonal average.
Bokaro recorded 42.1°C, Chaibasa touched 40°C, while Ranchi reported 39°C.
Amid the prevailing dry and oppressive weather, Baharagora in East Singhbhum received 4 mm of rainfall, the highest in the state during the past 24 hours, bringing brief relief from the heat.
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IMD Forecasts Thunderstorms Across Jharkhand
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds across several districts over the next few days, especially in southern and central Jharkhand, including Jamshedpur and adjoining areas.
For May 25, IMD predicted thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds of 40 to 50 kmph at isolated places over north-eastern, southern and central parts of the state, including Giridih, Dhanbad, Bokaro, Ramgarh, Ranchi, Khunti and Gumla.
On May 26, stronger winds of 50 to 60 kmph are likely over north-eastern and adjoining central districts such as Dhanbad, Giridih, Bokaro, Hazaribagh and Koderma. Southern and adjoining central regions, including Ranchi, Khunti, Gumla and Ramgarh, may witness thunderstorms with wind speeds of 40 to 50 kmph.
The unsettled weather is expected to continue on May 27, with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds likely over isolated areas of north-eastern Jharkhand.
“Thunderstorm activity may offer intermittent relief from soaring temperatures, but residents should stay alert due to the risk of lightning and strong winds,” an IMD official said.
Heatwave Conditions Continue in North-West Jharkhand
Despite the forecast of storm activity, heatwave conditions are expected to persist in north-western Jharkhand, especially in Garhwa, Palamu and Chatra on May 25. Garhwa and Palamu are likely to continue facing heatwave conditions on May 26 as well.
For Jamshedpur, the coming days may bring a sharp shift from scorching daytime heat to stormy evenings with thunder, lightning and gusty winds.
Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated and take shelter during thunderstorm activity.