PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Oct 18: As Jharkhand gears up for Diwali festivities on Monday, October 20, the weather office has predicted a mixed spell across the state — with the southern districts likely to witness rain or thunderstorms, while most other regions can expect dry and comfortable conditions.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), an upper air cyclonic circulation persists over north Jharkhand and adjoining areas. The system is likely to influence local weather patterns, leading to cloud formation and instability, particularly over the southern parts of the state, including East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, and parts of Gumla and Simdega districts.
The IMD’s forecast suggests that southern Jharkhand could experience light to moderate rain or thunderstorms on Diwali day, which might briefly disrupt outdoor celebrations such as fireworks and community gatherings.
Residents are advised to remain cautious during the evening hours and plan their festivities accordingly.
In contrast, the central and northern regions, including Ranchi, Hazaribagh, Bokaro, Dhanbad, Deoghar, and Dumka, are expected to remain largely dry under a partly cloudy sky.
Temperatures will stay within a comfortable range — daytime highs between 28°C and 32°C, and nighttime lows around 18°C to 22°C, making for pleasant weather during the festive weekend.
The IMD also noted that on Sunday, October 19, the sky will remain partly cloudy with dry weather likely across Jharkhand.
On Tuesday, October 21, morning fog or mist could occur in a few areas, but the rest of the day is expected to stay mainly clear and dry.
Humidity levels are forecast to remain moderate, and winds will be light to moderate (5–15 kmph), ensuring comfortable conditions for most festive activities.
While rain chances remain confined to the southern belt, the rest of Jharkhand will likely enjoy a serene Diwali night under partly cloudy skies.
Meteorologists have urged residents in the southern districts to remain alert for short spells of rain and lightning.
Overall, the state is set for a largely calm Diwali, with only isolated weather interruptions in parts of southern Jharkhand — a blend of festive sparkle and passing clouds to mark the season of lights.
