Ranchi (Jharkhand): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for heavy rainfall in six districts of Jharkhand on Thursday, July 17, warning residents of possible thunderstorms and lightning in the region.
According to the IMD, districts likely to be affected include Palamu, Garhwa, Koderma, Lohardaga, Chatra, and Kodarma. The weather department has advised people in these areas to stay indoors during intense rainfall and avoid sheltering under trees during lightning.
The alert comes after a day of varied rainfall patterns across the state. In the past 24 hours, Sahibganj’s Rajmahal region recorded the highest rainfall at 187.2 mm, followed by lighter showers in central districts.
In Ranchi, only 9 mm of rain was recorded, though the capital city experienced intermittent drizzle and cloudy skies throughout Wednesday. Morning showers in Ranchi were light but consistent, contributing to a cooler and overcast day.
Maximum temperatures across the state remained moderate, with Ranchi recording 29.2°C, Jamshedpur at 31.5°C, Daltonganj at 28.6°C, Bokaro at 28.2°C, and Chaibasa topping at 32°C.
The IMD has cautioned that the weather may become more intense in isolated pockets, especially in hilly and forested regions, which may lead to local flooding or disruption in rural connectivity. Emergency response teams have been asked to stay on alert in vulnerable areas.
Meteorologists believe the rainfall is part of a monsoon surge moving across eastern India, which is expected to bring moderate to heavy rainfall over the next few days.
Residents in the affected districts are advised to keep an eye on local weather bulletins, avoid unnecessary travel, and take basic precautions during thunderstorm conditions.
