PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, April 20: Jharkhand continued to face intense heat on Monday, with several districts recording temperatures well above normal. At the same time, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms and gusty winds in parts of the state over the next two days.
According to the IMD’s Meteorological Centre in Ranchi, Daltonganj was the hottest place at 43.9°C, followed by Bokaro Thermal (43.1°C) and Chaibasa (41.4°C). Jamshedpur recorded 41.6°C, while Ranchi reported 39.3°C. Minimum temperatures also remained high, with Ranchi at 26.0°C and Jamshedpur at 26.6°C.
No significant rainfall was recorded over the past 24 hours, worsening the heatwave.
The IMD said heatwave conditions are likely at isolated places over north-western Jharkhand on April 20, and may extend to southern and north-western regions on April 21.
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Relief Expected with Thunderstorms
Some relief is likely as thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds (30–40 kmph) are expected in isolated parts of north-eastern Jharkhand on April 20 and 21.
Meteorologists said the changing weather is due to active atmospheric systems, including troughs and cyclonic circulation affecting the region.
Residents said the heat has become difficult to bear. “It feels like the sun is directly overhead all day,” said Rakesh Kumar, a shopkeeper in Daltonganj. In Jamshedpur, student Ananya Singh said nights offer little relief from the heat.
Authorities have advised people to avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, stay hydrated, and remain alert for thunderstorms and lightning.