IMD Warns Jharkhand: Thunderstorms Hit March 21

A yellow alert blankets Jharkhand for March 21, signaling imminent thunderstorms, heavy rain, fierce winds up to 50 km/h, and lightning, as per the India Meteorological Department. Ranchi and several districts are in the spotlight for this volatile weather shift.

This follows days of moody skies—persistent clouds, showers, and blustery conditions that have kept temperatures in check. Ranchi's recent light rains and thunder, coupled with hail in pockets, provided a brief breather from soaring mercury levels.

Experts note the pattern stems from unstable upper air currents, but relief may be short-lived. Post-March 22, expect rapid warming, possibly leading to scorching days ahead.

Temperature snapshots from the past day: Daltonganj peaked at 38.2°C (low 16.5°C statewide min in Khunti), Ranchi 34.3°C/19.1°C, Jamshedpur 36°C/21.6°C, Bokaro 31.5°C/19.1°C, Chaibasa 36.4°C/21.4°C. Friday's Ranchi morning was sunny, but clouds rolled in later, tempering the heat.

Safety advisories are clear: steer clear of open fields, don't shelter under trees, hunker down indoors during lightning, and avoid unnecessary outings. Jharkhand's residents, stay vigilant amid this unpredictable spring weather.