Jharkhand faces flash flood risks and heavy rain alerts

The state of Jharkhand is facing significant weather volatility, with heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning alerts issued across multiple districts. The Meteorological Department has predicted low to moderate flash flood risks for several watersheds, specifically naming Garhwa, Palamu, Latehar, Lohardaga, Gumla, Khunti, Saraikela-Kharsawan, East Singhbhum, and Simdega as areas at risk.

A ‘red’ alert for very heavy rain has been issued for Garhwa, Palamu, Simdega, and West Singhbhum, while an orange alert covers Latehar, Lohardaga, Gumla, Khunti, and Saraikela-Kharsawan through Wednesday morning. Heavy rainfall is expected to continue across the state until September 5. Recent high rainfall totals include 217 mm in Dumaria and 162.2 mm in Dumri.

In addition to rain, authorities have warned of strong winds reaching speeds of 30 to 40 km/h. While the weather remains intense, the state’s cumulative rainfall deficit has narrowed to just 6 per cent as of the end of August, placing the monsoon performance within the meteorological ‘normal’ range.