PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, June 16: Despite the arrival of the southwest monsoon in Jharkhand, large parts of the state continued to reel under intense heat for the second consecutive day on Tuesday, with temperatures remaining significantly above normal in several districts.
Jamshedpur recorded a scorching 40°C during the past 24 hours, nearly 3.8°C above normal, while Daltonganj emerged as the hottest place in the state at 40.4°C, according to the latest weather report.
State capital Ranchi recorded a maximum temperature of 34.2°C during the same period.
Little Rain Despite Monsoon Onset
Although the southwest monsoon has entered Jharkhand, no significant rainfall was reported from major weather observatories over the past 24 hours.
However, scattered showers were recorded in parts of Pakur, Ramgarh and Khunti, offering limited relief from the prevailing heat and humidity.
The lack of widespread rainfall has allowed uncomfortable weather conditions to persist across much of the state, particularly in urban and industrial centres.
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IMD Forecasts Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 40–50 kmph at isolated places across Jharkhand over the next few days.
On June 16, such weather activity is expected over most parts of the state except the north-western region.
Similar conditions are likely on June 17 across southern and adjoining central districts. The IMD has also predicted thunderstorms and gusty winds in various parts of the state on June 18 and 19.
Monsoon Likely to Advance Further
Meteorologists said the southwest monsoon has advanced further into additional parts of Jharkhand and Bihar, and conditions remain favourable for its continued progress during the next four to five days.
Weather experts expect rainfall activity to gradually increase as the monsoon strengthens over the region.
Residents Await Relief from Heat
With temperatures remaining high and humidity levels increasing, residents across the state are eagerly waiting for widespread rainfall.
“The afternoons have become extremely uncomfortable, especially with rising humidity. We are hoping the monsoon arrives fully and gives us some respite,” said Rajesh Kumar, a resident of Jamshedpur.
Another resident, Sunita Verma of Mango, echoed similar sentiments.
“Dark clouds have been appearing frequently, but there has been very little rain. People are looking forward to steady showers and cooler weather,” she said.
Meteorologists have advised people to remain cautious during thunderstorms and lightning activity.
Residents have been urged to avoid taking shelter under trees, stay away from open fields during lightning, and follow weather advisories issued by local authorities.
