PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, March 14: Heat wave conditions are likely to prevail at isolated places in the north-western parts of Jharkhand on March 14 and 15, with temperatures expected to rise significantly in districts of the region.
Weather officials have cautioned that hot and dry conditions may intensify during the afternoon hours, increasing the risk of heat stress.
Thunderstorms and gusty winds from March 15
From March 15 onwards, thunderstorm activity accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with speeds of 40–50 kmph is likely to affect several parts of the state.
On March 15, such weather activity is expected at isolated places across Jharkhand except the north-western region.
On March 16, thunderstorms and gusty winds are likely at a few places across the state, while on March 17 similar conditions may occur at isolated locations.
Synoptic conditions behind the weather change
According to weather officials, the upper-air cyclonic circulation over Bangladesh and adjoining Gangetic West Bengal, which earlier extended up to about 1.5 km above mean sea level, has now become less marked.
However, a trough aloft in the lower-level westerlies persists between 3.1 km and 4.5 km above mean sea level, roughly along longitude 90°E and north of latitude 22°N.
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In addition, a trough extending from northeast Bihar to south Odisha now runs from Jharkhand to Vidarbha across Chhattisgarh at around 0.9 km above mean sea level.
These synoptic conditions are likely to trigger convective weather activity over Jharkhand in the coming days.
Rainfall recorded in last 24 hours
Light rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms was recorded at isolated places across the state during the past 24 hours. Pakur recorded the highest rainfall of 6.8 mm during the period.
Advisory for residents
Weather officials have advised residents to take precautions against rising temperatures and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours.
People have also been urged to remain alert during thunderstorm activity, as lightning and strong winds may cause temporary disruptions and localised damage in vulnerable areas.