Heat Wave alert for north-western Jharkhand

Jamshedpur: Jharkhand is likely to experience heat wave conditions in isolated parts of its north-western region on March 14 and 15, according to the latest meteorological outlook. 

The weather department has indicated a gradual rise in daytime temperatures in these areas, which may push conditions into the heat wave category.

On March 15, thunderstorm activity accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with speeds of 40–50 Kmph is also expected at isolated places across the state, except in the north-western region where heat wave conditions may prevail. 

The thunderstorm activity is likely to expand further on March 16, with such weather conditions forecast at a few places across Jharkhand. 

On March 17, thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds of similar intensity are again expected at isolated locations across the state.

Meteorological analysis indicates that the upper-air cyclonic circulation over Bangladesh and adjoining Gangetic West Bengal, which earlier extended up to about 1.5 Km above mean sea level, has weakened and become less marked. 

However, a trough aloft in the lower-level westerlies persists between 3.1 Km and 4.5 Km above mean sea level, roughly along longitude 90°E and north of latitude 22°N, continuing to influence weather patterns over eastern India.

In addition, a trough extending from northeast Bihar to south Odisha was today  running from Jharkhand to Vidarbha across Chhattisgarh at around 0.9 Km above mean sea level.

These synoptic features are expected to trigger convective activity, leading to thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds in several parts of the state during the coming days.

During the past 24- hours, light rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms was recorded at isolated places in Jharkhand. 

Pakur received the highest rainfall in the state with 6.8 mm recorded during the period.

Meteorologists have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity, avoid open fields during lightning, and stay hydrated as rising temperatures may intensify heat stress in vulnerable regions.