Jharkhand sees surplus rainfall; heavy showers forecast for Ranchi region

PINAKI MAJUMDAR

Jamshedpur, July 18: The monsoon continues to maintain a strong grip over Jharkhand, with the statistics of Ranchi Meteorological Centre, reporting 611.5 mm of actual rainfall across the state so far, marking a 70% surplus over the normal 359.8 mm.

Several districts have recorded significantly above-normal rainfall, with East Singhbhum (1014.5 mm, +155%), Ramgarh (823.7 mm, +122%), Lohardaga (491.6 mm, +117%), and Latehar (766.5 mm, +117%) among the highest gainers.

However, some districts like Gumla (-4%) and Godda (-11%) remain slightly below normal.

Recent weather activity across the state included light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms at many locations.

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Hunterganj in Chatra district recorded the highest rainfall at 132 mm, in past 24 hours.

The weather outlook for Ranchi over the next several days includes generally cloudy skies with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers expected daily through July 23. Day temperatures are likely to hover around 30–31°C, while minimums remain in the 23–24°C range.

The IMD also warns of ongoing monsoon activity influenced by a depression over Southeast Uttar Pradesh.

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Moving slowly west-northwestward, the system is expected to affect parts of south Uttar Pradesh and north Madhya Pradesh in the coming 48 hours, contributing to continued rainfall potential in neighboring states, including Jharkhand.

The monsoon trough currently runs through Bikaner, Datia, the depression center, Dehri, Purulia, Digha, and onward to the northeast Bay of Bengal — sustaining widespread rain conditions.

Outlook

Continued vigilance is advised as the rainfall pattern remains active, with potential for localized heavy spells.

People are urged to follow safety advisories and weather updates issued by the meteorogical department.