PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, March 16: Jharkhand is likely to witness a spell of unstable weather over the next few days, with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds expected across several parts of the state between March 16 and March 19.
According to meteorological assessments, changing atmospheric conditions triggered by a western disturbance and multiple upper-air circulations may lead to intermittent storm activity during this period.
Meteorologists have also warned of the possibility of hailstorms in isolated areas of north-eastern and adjoining central Jharkhand.
Storm Activity May Intensify on March 16
Weather conditions are expected to intensify on Sunday (March 16).
Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and strong winds of 50–60 Kmph, gusting up to 70 Kmph, are likely over eastern and adjoining central regions of Jharkhand.
Meanwhile, western districts of the state may experience thunderstorms with winds ranging between 40 and 50 km/h.
Thunderstorm Alert Till March 19
On March 17, thunderstorms and lightning accompanied by gusty winds of 40–50 Kmph are expected at isolated places across the state.
Similar weather conditions are likely to continue on March 18, though north-western districts may largely remain unaffected.
Storm activity may persist on March 19, with thunderstorms and gusty winds forecast again in isolated places across Jharkhand.
Western Disturbance Behind Weather Change
Meteorologists attribute the developing weather pattern to the influence of a western disturbance currently seen as an upper-air cyclonic circulation over north Punjab and adjoining areas, extending between 1.5 and 3.1 km above mean sea level.
A synoptic trough in the middle and upper-level westerlies, located around 5.8 km above sea level and running along longitude 70°E north of latitude 25°N, is also contributing to atmospheric instability.
Additionally, an upper-air cyclonic circulation over northeast Assam and neighbouring areas, extending up to 1.5 km above mean sea level, is influencing the weather system.
Another trough in the lower-level westerlies, running roughly along longitude 93°E north of latitude 22°N between 3.1 and 5.8 km above sea level, is also affecting weather conditions over eastern India.
Heat Conditions Recorded Earlier
Despite these developing systems, Jharkhand experienced mainly dry weather in recent days, with near heat-wave conditions reported at isolated places.
Temperature observations indicated higher readings, particularly across north-western and south-eastern parts of the state.
Meteorologists have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity, especially in areas prone to lightning and strong winds, as sudden weather changes may disrupt normal life and pose risks to outdoor activities.
