A sharp and intense cold wave descended upon large parts of Jharkhand on Friday, bringing frigid conditions as the mercury dipped below the 10-degree Celsius mark in over a dozen districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed the widespread chill, highlighting a significant drop in temperatures across the state.
District-Wise Mercury Plunge
The IMD data revealed a stark picture of the winter's bite. The remote district of Khunti recorded the state's lowest temperature at a bone-chilling 1.5 degrees Celsius. It was closely followed by Daltonganj (Palamu) at 3.2°C and the industrial city of Bokaro at 3.3°C. In total, thirteen districts experienced sub-10-degree Celsius temperatures.
The affected districts, as listed by the IMD, are:
- Bokaro
- Deoghar
- East Singhbhum
- Koderma
- Hazaribag
- Latehar
- Daltonganj (Palamu)
- Lohardaga
- Pakur
- Ranchi
- Seraikela
- Simdega
- West Singhbhum
Meteorological Cause Behind the Chill
Explaining the weather phenomenon, Abhishek Anand, Deputy Director of the IMD centre in Ranchi, attributed the cold wave to prevailing north-westerly winds. "North-westerly winds continue to prevail in the tropospheric levels over Jharkhand, causing the cold wave conditions in several districts," Anand stated. These winds, originating from colder regions, are responsible for transporting cold air into the state, leading to the sudden and severe temperature drop.
Impact and Outlook
The sudden onset of such low temperatures impacts daily life, especially for vulnerable populations. The cold wave conditions prompt advisories for residents to take necessary precautions against the chill. With the IMD attributing the situation to specific wind patterns, the forecast suggests that the cold spell may persist in the coming days until there is a change in the prevailing wind direction or other meteorological factors. Residents across the mentioned districts are advised to stay updated with official weather bulletins.
