Jamshedpur: The summer-like agony in monsoon prompted the IMD offices in Ranchi and Patna to announce on Sunday a heatwave in Jharkhand that is only going to worsen in the next 48 hours.
This is the first time the state is witnessing scorching conditions this year because cyclonic systems in summer months had kept maximum temperatures well below normal. Currently, daytime readings are five to six notches above normal.
"A moderate heatwave is prevailing in many parts of the state. It is likely to become severe and cover the entire state in the next one or two days," a bulletin said.
Director of Ranchi Meteorological Centre B.K. Mandal said monsoon wasn't expected in another week or so. "Maximum temperatures will continue to rise because dry westerly winds are dominant," he said.
The northern limit of monsoon passed through Ahmednagar, Amravati, Gondia, Titlagarh, Cuttack, Midnapore and Bagdogra on Sunday. "Further advancement is not likely because the currents are weak," Mandal said, adding that the monsoon flow was expected to gain momentum only after a strong system formed over the Bay of Bengal.
Ranchi recorded a maximum of around 39°C, six notches above normal, while Jamshedpur read 42-plus degrees, six notches above normal and the hottest day of the steel city this season.
Palamau headquarters Daltonganj and several other districts in north-western Jharkhand such as Latehar, Garhwa and Chatra recorded around 42°C, four to five notches above normal.
The cruel sun and hot, dry winds forced residents to stay indoors. Streets wore a deserted look and business took a beating at all urban centres.
"Every Sunday, I go to the local haat for fresh vegetables. Today, I skipped the ritual because of the stifling conditions," said S.K. Verma, an employee of Tata Steel and a resident of Kadma.
Jamshedpur Women's College student Aditi Saha said the heat was tormenting for those who dared to venture out. "I shall skip classes tomorrow (Monday) if the weather doesn't change for the better ," the teenager said.
Last monsoon, maximum readings in most parts of the state were much below the oppressive 40-degree mark. The rains had arrived on June 16, six days late, bringing respite from heat and humidity.
