PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, July 16: Widespread rain activity is expected to continue in Jharkhand over the next three days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places, particularly over north-western and north-central parts of the state on Wednesday, July 16.
Scattered heavy rainfall is also likely over central and adjoining north-eastern districts, along with thunderstorms and lightning accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-40 kmph in isolated areas.
On Thursday, July 17, heavy rainfall is likely to occur in isolated parts of north-western Jharkhand, while thunderstorms and lightning may affect other regions. The wet spell is expected to persist on Friday, July 18, with thunderstorms and lightning likely to occur at isolated locations across the state.
Depression Weakens, Moves Toward Uttar Pradesh
The weather activity follows the weakening of a depression that was positioned over Jharkhand and surrounding regions.
According to the IMD, the system moved west-northwestwards and weakened into a well-marked low-pressure area, currently lying over north Jharkhand and adjoining south Bihar.
The system is expected to move further towards eastern Uttar Pradesh over the next 24 hours.
Active Monsoon Conditions Prevail
The monsoon trough at mean sea level currently passes through Bikaner, central Rajasthan, Hamirpur, and the low-pressure centre over Jharkhand-Bihar, stretching further to the northeast Bay of Bengal, sustaining active monsoon conditions over the region.
In the last 24 hours, light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms was reported across most parts of Jharkhand.
Heavy to very heavy rainfall was recorded at isolated locations, with Rajmahal in Sahebganj district receiving the highest rainfall of 187.2 mm.
The highest maximum temperature of 32.5°C was recorded at Garhwa, while Latehar-AWS registered the lowest minimum temperature of 20.3°C.
The weather department has advised residents, especially in vulnerable areas, to remain alert for waterlogging, gusty winds, and thunderstorm-related hazards over the next few days.
