Jamshedpur: The southwest monsoon is gathering pace across Jharkhand, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting moderate thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph at isolated places across most parts of the state on Friday.
According to the latest IMD bulletin, the seasonal trough extending from Rajasthan to Gangetic West Bengal through north Madhya Pradesh, south Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand remains active. An upper air cyclonic circulation over the north Bay of Bengal and the adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh is also enhancing moisture inflow, creating favourable conditions for widespread monsoon activity across the region.
The weather office said the southwest monsoon has advanced further into Jharkhand and is likely to cover the remaining parts of the state within the next two to three days.
During the past 24 hours, light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms was reported from several parts of the state. Raidih in Gumla district recorded the highest rainfall at 71.4 mm, while Daltonganj remained the hottest place with a maximum temperature of 41.2°C. The lowest minimum temperature of 21.4°C was recorded at the Latehar Automatic Weather Station (AWS).
The IMD has forecast thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds over most districts of Jharkhand on June 26, except parts of the north-western region. On June 27, similar weather conditions are expected at isolated places in the north-western districts, while Garhwa, Palamu, and Chatra are likely to continue experiencing hot and humid conditions.
The Meteorological Department has advised residents to remain vigilant during thunderstorms, avoid open fields, trees, and electric poles, and follow official weather advisories to reduce the risk of lightning-related incidents.
“The sky has remained overcast since morning, and we are expecting good rainfall after days of intense heat. However, people should stay indoors during thunderstorms, as lightning poses a serious threat every monsoon,” said a resident of Jamshedpur.
With the monsoon becoming increasingly active, meteorologists expect rainfall intensity to increase over the coming days, bringing much-needed relief from the prevailing heat and improving water availability across the state.