THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Jamshedpur, May 26: After enduring intense heat and humidity through the day, residents of Jamshedpur finally received relief on Monday evening as thundershowers, gusty winds, and lightning brought down temperatures across the city.
Jamshedpur recorded a maximum temperature of 41.6°C on Monday, nearly 3.9 degrees above normal, making it one of the hottest urban centres in Jharkhand. The minimum temperature settled at 28.6°C, also above normal, adding to the discomfort caused by high humidity levels.
The weather changed dramatically by evening as dark clouds gathered over the city, followed by moderate rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorm activity. According to IMD data, Jamshedpur received 12.8 mm rainfall between 8:30 am and 8:30 pm.
Residents across the city welcomed the sudden change in weather after days of relentless heat.
“The evening rain felt like a blessing after the unbearable heat and humidity during the day,” said Anita Sinha, a resident of Kadma.
Rajesh Verma from Sonari said the lightning activity was intense, but the rain brought much-needed comfort to residents struggling with the heatwave conditions.
Daltonganj Records Highest Temperature in Jharkhand
While Jamshedpur witnessed relief, Daltonganj remained the hottest place in Jharkhand with a maximum temperature of 45.7°C. Other major cities also recorded high temperatures, including Bokaro at 42.6°C, Chaibasa at 42.0°C, and Ranchi at 39.8°C.
The highest rainfall in the state was recorded at Darisai AWS, which received 19.5 mm of precipitation.
IMD Warns of Heatwave and Thunderstorms
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heatwave conditions in isolated parts of north-western Jharkhand, especially in Garhwa, Palamu, and Chatra districts.
At the same time, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 50–60 kmph are likely in districts including Dhanbad, Giridih, Bokaro, Hazaribagh, and Koderma. Similar weather activity is expected over Ranchi, Khunti, Gumla, Ramgarh, and nearby districts over the next 24 to 48 hours.
Weather officials have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity, avoid open spaces during lightning strikes, and follow official weather advisories.