Cyclone Arnab to bring fresh spell of heavy rain to Jharkhand
PINAKI MAJUMDAR Jamshedpur, Sept 22: Jharkhand is bracing for another spell of widespread rain as the deep depression over the Bay of…
PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Sept 22: Jharkhand is bracing for another spell of widespread rain as the deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify further and influence weather conditions across the state over the next few days.
As of Tuesday, the weather system lay over the west-central and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal and was moving west-northwestwards. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), it is likely to cross the north Andhra Pradesh–south Odisha coast between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur during the night of September 23 and the early hours of September 24.
Although Jharkhand is away from the projected landfall zone, the system is expected to enhance moisture inflow and increase rainfall activity over the state as it moves inland.
Very heavy rain likely on September 24
The IMD has forecast heavy rain in Jharkhand from September 22 to 23, followed by very heavy rain on September 24. Another spell of heavy rain is likely on September 25 and 26.
Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are also expected during this period, with southern and central Jharkhand likely to experience noticeable weather activity.
Districts including East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, Seraikela-Kharsawan, Ranchi, Khunti, Ramgarh and Bokaro and adjoining areas could receive significant rainfall as the system approaches the Odisha coast and subsequently weakens after moving inland.
Jamshedpur may see frequent showers
For Jamshedpur and adjoining areas, the developing weather system could bring frequent spells of rain, overcast skies, thunderstorms and a fall in daytime temperatures.
Intense showers may result in temporary waterlogging in low-lying areas, affect traffic movement and reduce visibility on major roads. Localised disruption is also possible in areas with inadequate drainage.
Rivers, reservoirs may see rise in water levels
The rainfall could also have an impact on rivers and reservoirs in southern Jharkhand. With several catchments already receiving monsoon rain, intense showers may cause a rapid rise in water levels in local rivers and streams, particularly in vulnerable stretches of the Subarnarekha and Kharkai river systems.
The IMD has also warned of rough to occasionally very rough sea conditions over parts of the Bay of Bengal as the system strengthens, with the principal coastal impact expected along Odisha and north Andhra Pradesh.
Weather officials have advised residents to remain alert during thunderstorms, avoid exposed locations and follow official weather updates.
For Jharkhand, September 23–25 is expected to be the key period as the system’s inland movement coincides with increased rainfall activity across the state.
