Jharkhand’s monsoon has become active again, with a warning of heavy rainfall in Palamu, Garhwa and Latehar districts of the Palamu division on August 19. According to the India Meteorological Department, several parts of the state may receive heavy to very heavy rainfall, while extremely heavy rainfall is also possible at some places.
According to the IMD, a depression was active over Jharkhand and adjoining West Bengal on August 18. It was expected to move west-northwestwards towards Jharkhand and Bihar during the following 24 hours. Its influence was expected to bring rainfall to several parts of Jharkhand, including heavy to very heavy rainfall at some places.
Several weather systems are currently active, resulting in varying rainfall intensity across different parts of the state. Some areas may receive heavy rainfall, while others may experience light or moderate rain.
Palamu, Garhwa and Latehar have been placed under an alert for heavy rainfall. Recent weather updates have indicated an orange alert for these districts.
Heavy rainfall may lead to water accumulation in low-lying areas, waterlogging on roads and a rise in the water level of local rivers and streams. In rural areas, unpaved roads and weak structures may also be affected by rainfall.
A prolonged spell of heavy rain could cause a sudden increase in water flow in small rivers and streams. People are advised to avoid going near rivers, streams and areas with fast-moving water without necessity.
The weather department has indicated that b winds may accompany the rainfall. Wind speeds in Jharkhand and adjoining areas were expected to reach 35 to 45 kilometres per hour, with gusts reaching up to 55 kilometres per hour.
Such winds may cause weak branches of trees to break and may damage temporary structures.
The rainfall may affect agricultural activities. Normal rainfall can benefit kharif crops, but continuous heavy rain may result in waterlogging in fields and could damage crops.
Farmers need to exercise caution while working in open fields during adverse weather conditions.
The risk of lightning also remains during thunderstorms. Farmers and rural residents are advised to avoid open fields, trees, electricity poles and water sources when thunder and lightning begin.
Moving to a safe, permanent structure is preferable. The IMD has also advised people not to take shelter under trees during lightning.
Heavy rain may affect traffic in urban areas of the Palamu division. Water accumulation on roads can create difficulties for motorists. Two-wheeler riders need to exercise particular caution because potholes and road conditions may be difficult to assess on waterlogged roads.
Visibility may also decrease during heavy rainfall. Drivers should reduce speed and maintain sufficient distance from vehicles ahead. The depth of water should also be assessed before attempting to cross waterlogged roads.
Families living in weak or unpaved houses also need to remain cautious during heavy rainfall. Continuous rain can increase pressure on walls and roofs.
If a house is already structurally weak, families should be prepared to move to a safe location according to the advice of the local administration.
Rainfall during the current monsoon season in Jharkhand is still reported to be below normal. Despite the activation of the monsoon, water conditions have not returned to normal in several areas because of the rainfall deficit.
Rainfall in the coming days could therefore affect the state’s overall rainfall figures.
A rise in the water level of rivers and streams could create difficulties for villages located nearby. Families living along rivers should remain alert to any sudden increase in water levels, while children should not be allowed near fast-moving water.
Heavy rainfall may also affect road and rail traffic. The IMD has indicated the possibility of an impact on road and rail transportation because of heavy rain and b winds. Waterlogging may also occur in low-lying areas.
Sensitive areas require close monitoring during the period of heavy rainfall. Monitoring of electricity supply, road connectivity, drainage systems and water levels in rivers and streams may need to be increased.
Local relief teams may need to be activated promptly in the event of an emergency.
People have been advised to follow the latest weather information. Official information from the district administration and the weather department should be given priority over rumours.
Rainfall is expected to continue in Jharkhand because of the active weather systems. Heavy rainfall has also been forecast at different places in the state for August 19. The IMD’s next bulletin may provide further information on the movement of the system and the intensity of rainfall.
