Cold Wave Grips Jharkhand: IMD Sounds Alert for Seven Districts
The India Meteorological Department has raised concerns over an impending cold wave set to sweep across seven districts in Jharkhand. On Wednesday, the weather bureau issued a significant cold wave warning effective until November 15, putting residents and authorities on high alert.
Districts Under Yellow Alert and Temperature Drop
The meteorological department has activated a 'yellow' alert, signaling people to 'be aware', for seven specific districts: Garhwa, Palamu, Chatra, Latehar, Lohardaga, Gumla, and Simdega. This advisory remains in effect from November 12 to November 15.
According to Abhishek Anand, Deputy Director and weather scientist at Ranchi IMD, these districts are likely to witness a significant drop in nighttime temperatures. "The seven districts are likely to experience a dip of 2-3 degrees Celsius in minimum temperatures, taking the temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius during the next three days," Anand stated.
Current Temperature Scenario Across the State
The warning comes as several districts have already begun experiencing chilly conditions. In the past 24 hours, some areas recorded minimum temperatures plunging below the 10-degree Celsius mark.
Gumla emerged as the coldest location in the state with the mercury dropping to 7.2 degrees Celsius. It was closely followed by Khunti at 8.1 degrees Celsius and Lohardaga at 9.1 degrees Celsius.
The state capital, Ranchi, recorded a minimum temperature of 10.7 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, representing a notable drop of 3 degrees Celsius from normal seasonal levels. Other major towns reported varying temperatures with Jamshedpur at 12.4 degrees Celsius, Daltonganj at 10.3 degrees Celsius, and Chaibasa recording 14.4 degrees Celsius.
Expected Weather Conditions and Safety Advisory
Beyond the temperature drop, the weather bulletin highlighted another significant concern for residents. Dense fog is expected during early morning hours, which is likely to substantially reduce visibility across affected regions.
The IMD has urged people to exercise caution and take necessary precautions while traveling during early morning and late evening hours. The combination of low temperatures and reduced visibility requires extra vigilance, particularly for those commuting or working outdoors.
This early onset of cold wave conditions signals the beginning of the winter season in Jharkhand, prompting authorities to advise residents to take appropriate measures to stay warm and safe during this period of extreme weather.
