PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, March 13: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds across several parts of Jharkhand till March 17, which may bring temporary relief from the rising temperatures in the state.
According to the latest IMD weather bulletin, isolated places across Jharkhand—except the north-western region—are likely to experience thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds of 40–50 kmph on March 14 and 15.
Storm activity to continue till March 17
Similar weather conditions are expected at a few places across the state on March 16, while isolated areas may again witness thunderstorms on March 17, excluding the north-western belt.
On March 18, the north-western parts of Jharkhand may experience thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds of 30–40 kmph.
However, the weather is expected to remain dry in most places on Friday.
Why the weather is changing
Meteorologists said the weather activity is being influenced by an upper-air cyclonic circulation over Bangladesh and adjoining Gangetic West Bengal, extending up to 1.5 km above mean sea level.
In addition, a trough in the lower-level westerlies, with its axis between 3.1 km and 4.5 km above mean sea level along longitude 90°E north of latitude 22°N, is also affecting atmospheric conditions over the region.
During the past 24 hours, light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms was recorded at isolated places in Jharkhand.
The highest rainfall of 18.6 mm was reported from Putki in Dhanbad district.
Advisory for residents
Weather officials have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorms and lightning, particularly in open areas, as gusty winds may affect several districts over the coming days.
