Jharkhand braces for thunderstorm activity over weekend

PINAKI MAJUMDAR

Jamshedpur, May 17: Jharkhand is set to experience a spell of inclement weather as thunderstorm and lightning activity, accompanied by gusty winds, have been forecast from May 17 to May 20.

The meteorological department has issued alerts indicating varying wind intensities across regions during this period.

On May 17, isolated parts of the state may witness thunderstorms and lightning, with wind speeds reaching up to 40–50 Kmph.

The intensity is expected to ramp up on May 18 and 19, when gusty winds ranging from 50–60 Kmph are likely across most parts of the state, excluding the North-Western regions.

However, the North-Western areas aren’t entirely spared, as they are expected to experience slightly milder gusts of 30–40 kmph along with thunderstorm activity.

By May 20, the intensity is forecast to stabilize slightly, returning to wind speeds of 40–50 Kmph across isolated places in the state.

This surge in weather activity is attributed to a low-level trough extending from a cyclonic circulation over northwest Uttar Pradesh, stretching across East Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal to northern Bangladesh at an altitude of 0.9 Km above mean sea level.

This system is enhancing convective activity and moisture convergence, setting the stage for widespread atmospheric instability.

Residents are advised to remain cautious, secure loose outdoor objects, and avoid sheltering under trees during lightning episodes.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to respond to any weather-related emergencies.