Thunderstorm alert across Jharkhand as IMD forecasts week-long spell of rain and gusty winds

Jamshedpur: Jharkhand is likely to experience a prolonged spell of unsettled weather over the coming week, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 40–50 Jmph across the state from May 9 to May 15.

The weather department has issued a special alert for central Jharkhand, including Hazaribagh, Bokaro, Ramgarh, Ranchi, Koderma, Giridih, Dhanbad, and Khunti, where intensified thunderstorm activity is expected on May 9. 

Similar weather conditions are likely to persist across most districts in the days ahead, bringing intermittent rain and strong winds.

While thunderstorms and lightning are expected to affect isolated areas statewide, north-western parts of Jharkhand may witness comparatively less impact on May 11, 14, and 15, the forecast noted.

Meteorologists said the prevailing weather pattern is being driven by an upper air cyclonic circulation over East Madhya Pradesh and adjoining regions, positioned about 1.5 Km above mean sea level. In addition, a trough extending from East Rajasthan to East Jharkhand through Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh is contributing to increased atmospheric instability, creating favourable conditions for widespread convective activity.

Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorm hours, avoid sheltering under trees or venturing into open areas during lightning, and stay updated on official weather advisories as conditions may change rapidly.