Storm Alert: Thunderstorms and strong winds to lash Jharkhand

PINAKI MAJUMDAR

Jamshedpur, April 29: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather alert for Jharkhand, forecasting thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and strong winds from April 29 to May 1. Residents across the state are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary safety precautions.

April 29: Gusty Winds and Widespread Thunderstorms

Most parts of Jharkhand—excluding the northeastern region—are likely to experience thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of 50–60 km/h. The northeastern areas may also see stormy weather, albeit with slightly lower wind speeds of 40–50 km/h.

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April 30 and May 1: Scattered Storm Activity to Continue

Thunderstorms, along with gusty winds between 40–50 km/h, are expected at isolated locations across the state on April 30 and May 1.

Weather Systems Behind the Disturbance

The ongoing spell of inclement weather is attributed to a trough in the westerlies extending between 3.1 and 9.6 km above mean sea level along longitude 82°E, north of latitude 19°N. Additionally, a cyclonic circulation over northeast Bangladesh at 0.9 km above mean sea level remains active, fuelling the instability.

Precaution Advised

Authorities advise the public to avoid open areas during storms, stay indoors where possible, and follow local advisories to ensure safety.