Heatwave peaks across Jharkhand, storms and hail likely to break the spell

Jamshedpur: Jharkhand is in the grip of a punishing heatwave, with temperatures soaring across districts and offering little relief even at night. 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that while the heat remains intense, a spell of thunderstorms, gusty winds and possible hail may bring partial respite over the next three days.

Daltonganj recorded the highest temperature in the state at a scorching 44.8°C, followed by Chaibasa at 43.4°C. Jamshedpur sweltered at 41.5°C, while Bokaro and Ranchi registered 40.1°C and 39.9°C respectively—each significantly above normal levels. 

Persistently high night temperatures have compounded discomfort, with warm conditions lingering after sunset. Rainfall activity has been largely absent, with only Bokaro receiving a brief 2.0 mm shower. Clear skies and dry conditions have continued to fuel the daytime heat, raising concerns of heat stress, especially in densely populated urban areas.

“The heatwave remains firmly established over Jharkhand, with temperatures consistently running above normal due to dry weather and strong solar heating,” an IMD official said.  However, changing atmospheric conditions are now favourable for thunderstorm development, which could offer short-term relief.

According to the forecast, isolated areas across districts including Ranchi, Bokaro, Gumla, Hazaribagh, Khunti, Ramgarh, East and West Singhbhum, Simdega, Saraikela-Kharsawan, Koderma, Lohardaga, Dhanbad, Giridih and Jamtara may experience thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds reaching 50–60 kmph on April 28. On April 29, similar activity is expected in other parts of the state, with wind speeds between 40–50 kmph. 

By April 30, conditions could intensify, with a likelihood of hailstorms in several districts including Chatra, Hazaribagh, Koderma, Godda, Sahibganj, Pakur, Dumka, Deoghar, Jamtara, Giridih, Dhanbad, Bokaro, Ramgarh and Ranchi.

“People should stay alert during thunderstorm hours, avoid open areas during lightning, and take precautions against sudden strong winds and hail,” the official added. As Jharkhand braces for a volatile weather phase, authorities have urged residents to remain cautious, stay hydrated, and limit exposure to the harsh sun until conditions ease.