Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms expected over Jharkhand 

PINAKI MAJUMDAR

Jamshedpur, May 20: The state meteorological department in has issued a weather advisory for May 20 and 21, warning of potentially severe weather conditions across various parts of the state.

According to the latest forecast, thunderstorms and lightning accompanied by gusty winds with speeds reaching 50–60 Kmph are expected to occur at isolated places across the state on May 20.

Additionally, heavy rainfall is likely to lash isolated areas in the north-eastern parts of the state, raising concerns of localized flooding, waterlogging, and temporary disruption to transport and daily activities.

The weather conditions are expected to persist on May 21, albeit with slightly reduced intensity. Thunderstorms and lightning with gusty winds ranging from 40–50 Kmph are likely to continue affecting isolated areas throughout the state.

The current weather instability is attributed to an east-west trough system extending from Punjab to north Bangladesh, passing through Haryana, south Uttar Pradesh, south Bihar, and north Gangetic West Bengal at approximately 1.5 Km above mean sea level.

This trough is enhancing convective activity and contributing to the development of thunderstorms and localized heavy rainfall.

Advisory and Precautions

Residents are advised to remain indoors during thunderstorms and avoid open areas, tall trees, and metallic structures.

Farmers are urged to take precautionary measures to protect standing crops.

Commuters should plan travel accordingly and stay updated with traffic advisories in case of waterlogging or road blockages.

Fishermen and outdoor workers should exercise extreme caution and follow instructions issued by local authorities.

The Meteorological Department continues to monitor the system closely and will issue updates as required.