RANCHI: A sharp chill has gripped Jharkhand as westerly winds sweep in from northern India’s snow-covered regions. Ranchi and surrounding areas are experiencing biting cold nights, with temperatures dipping significantly after sunset. The mercury in Gumla plummeted to a frosty 5°C minimum, while Chaibasa recorded a daytime high of 32°C on Saturday. This stark contrast between day and night has residents bundling up after dark while feeling the sun’s heat during the day.
The India Meteorological Department attributes this weather shift to persistent northwesterly winds carrying frigid air into the state. ‘These winds are lowering minimum temperatures across Jharkhand,’ a department spokesperson confirmed. Daytime sunshine continues to provide a deceptive warmth, masking the encroaching winter chill.
Saturday’s weather in Ranchi featured clear skies from morning, accompanied by moderate cold breezes. Morning fog and evening chill are now common, contrasting sharply with midday heat. Detailed readings show Ranchi at 24.7°C max and 10.8°C min; Jamshedpur 28°C/10.6°C; Daltonganj 28.6°C/7.1°C; Bokaro 27.2°C/9.1°C; and Chaibasa peaking at 32°C/10.4°C.
As these cold winds persist, experts predict continued fluctuations. Residents are advised to prepare for colder nights ahead, with potential for further drops in minimum temperatures. The unusual daytime warmth offers little comfort against the nocturnal freeze, marking the onset of Jharkhand’s winter season.