Weather Alert in Jharkhand: Heavy Rainfall, Lightning Expected in Several Districts

The Ranchi Meteorological Centre warns of potential thunderstorms, rainfall and lightning in several districts of Jharkhand in the coming hours.

RANCHI – A severe weather alert has been issued for many districts in Jharkhand. There are strong chances of lightning striking multiple areas over the next few hours, accompanied by rainfall in many places.

For East Singhbhum the forecast for today is light thunderstorms with maximum surface wind speed less than 40 kmph. However, there is low cloud to ground lightning probability, i.e. less than 30 pc.

The Weather report says that the Monsoon Trough at mean sea level now passes through Ganganagar, Hisar, Aligarh, Orai, Sidhi, Daltonganj, Digha and thence southeastwards to east central Bay of Bengal and extends upto 0.9 km above mean sea level.

According to the report, a cyclonic circulation lies over Northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining north Odisha-Gangetic West Bengal coasts and extends upto 5.8 km above mean sea level tilting southwards with height.

The report says that it is likely to move west-northwestwards across north Odisha and adjoining Gangetic West Bengal & Jharkhand during next 2-3 days.

Another fresh cyclonic circulation is likely to form over Northwest Bay of Bengal around 18th July, 2023.

Districts at Risk

According to the Meteorological Centre, the anticipated weather conditions will likely affect parts of East Singhbhum, Garhwa, Latehar, Lohardaga, Ranchi, Seraikela-Kharsawan, Simdega, West Singhbhum, and Gumla districts.

Residents of these districts have been advised to prepare accordingly.

Safety Measures During Lightning

During a thunderstorm, it is strongly advised to stay indoors as much as possible. Using electronic devices or corded phones is discouraged as it may result in injury or damage.

There is also a risk of tree branches falling due to strong winds and potential damage to electrical wiring.

The warning says that if caught outside during a thunderstorm, one should avoid high ground or isolated trees and seek shelter in a safe place immediately. Visibility may decrease significantly during thunderstorms.

After a windstorm, caution is advised around fallen tree branches and staying away from power lines is suggested, as they might still be live.