PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, June 13: The southwest monsoon has made an earlier-than-usual entry into Jharkhand this year, arriving three days ahead of the normal schedule and five days earlier than last year.
However, despite the timely onset, rainfall across the state remains significantly below normal, raising concerns among farmers and prompting the state government to initiate precautionary measures.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon entered Jharkhand on June 12, compared with June 17 last year. Before reaching Jharkhand, the monsoon had advanced into West Bengal and Bihar on June 11.
Meteorologists expect the monsoon to cover the entire state within the next two to three days, bringing widespread rainfall to several districts.
Jharkhand Records Nearly 30% Rainfall Deficit
Despite the early arrival of the monsoon, rainfall statistics present a worrying picture. Jharkhand has received nearly 30 per cent less rainfall than normal, with pre-monsoon showers remaining weak in many areas.
While cities such as Ranchi, Bokaro, Dhanbad and Jamshedpur have experienced intermittent rainfall, overall precipitation has remained below seasonal expectations.
Data released by the Meteorological Centre shows significant variations in monsoon arrival dates in recent years. The monsoon reached Jharkhand on June 12 this year, June 17 in 2025, June 30 in 2024 and June 8 in 2023, highlighting increasing variability in weather patterns.
El Niño Impact and Rainfall Outlook
Weather experts attribute the subdued rainfall activity to the influence of El Niño, a climatic phenomenon associated with warming sea-surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean.
El Niño generally suppresses rainfall over the Indian subcontinent and can adversely affect the strength and distribution of the monsoon.
However, meteorologists remain optimistic that rainfall activity will strengthen in the coming weeks as favourable weather systems develop over the Bay of Bengal.
Government Steps Up Preparedness for Kharif Season
Recognising the potential impact on agriculture, the Jharkhand government has begun preparations to mitigate the effects of a weak monsoon.
Departments related to agriculture, water resources, fisheries and rural development have been directed to remain vigilant and ensure contingency plans are in place.
Sources said authorities are also monitoring seed availability and irrigation arrangements to safeguard the upcoming kharif cultivation season.
Thunderstorm and Heavy Rain Alert for 12 Districts
Meanwhile, the Ranchi Meteorological Centre has issued an alert for 12 districts, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, heavy rainfall and gusty winds reaching speeds of 50–60 kmph.
The districts likely to be affected are Godda, Sahibganj, Dumka, Pakur, Deoghar, Jamtara, Giridih, Dhanbad, Bokaro, Koderma, Hazaribagh and Ramgarh.
A yellow alert has also been issued for Ranchi and neighbouring districts, where wind speeds are expected to touch 40 kmph.
Meteorologists believe that if the monsoon system gains momentum as forecast, rainfall activity could increase substantially over the next few days, reducing the existing deficit and providing much-needed relief to farmers and water-stressed regions across Jharkhand.
