The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in Jharkhand, effective from 11:00 AM on July 11, 2023 to 11:00 AM on July 12, 2023. The alert covers all 24 districts of the state.
The IMD has forecast isolated heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in several districts, including East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, Seraikela Kharsawan, Khunti, Ranchi, Gumla, Bokaro, Hazaribag, Palamu, Chatra, Latehar, Lohardaga, Ramgarh, and Koderma.
The IMD has also warned of the possibility of localized flooding, waterlogging, and disruption of traffic in low-lying areas. Residents of these districts are advised to take precautions and stay safe during the heavy rainfall.
The IMD has said that the heavy rainfall is being caused by a low-pressure area over northwest Bay of Bengal off Odisha-West Bengal coasts. The low-pressure area is likely to intensify into a depression in the next 24 hours.
The heavy rainfall is expected to bring much-needed relief to the people of Jharkhand, who have been facing a drought-like situation for the past few months. The rainfall is also expected to boost the state’s agricultural production.
However, the IMD has also warned of the possibility of landslides and flash floods in hilly areas. Residents of hilly areas are advised to stay away from rivers and streams, and to be cautious while travelling.
The IMD has also advised fishermen to stay away from the rivers during the next 24 hours.
The IMD will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates as required.
Impact of Heavy Rainfall
The heavy rainfall is expected to have a significant impact on the people of Jharkhand. The following are some of the likely impacts:
Localized flooding and waterlogging in low-lying areas
Disruption of traffic in affected areas
Damage to infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and culverts
Loss of crops and livestock
Landslides and flash floods in hilly areas
Precautionary Measures
The following are some precautionary measures that people can take to stay safe during the heavy rainfall:
Stay indoors if possible. If you must go out, be careful and avoid walking or driving in flooded areas.
Be aware of the signs of a landslide or flash flood and evacuate immediately if necessary.
Do not cross flooded rivers or streams.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for the possibility of power outages and other disruptions.
Helpline Numbers
The following are some helpline numbers that people can call in case of emergency:
State Emergency Operation Centre: 1070
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): 1079
State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA): 0651-225-1709
Conclusion
State Emergency Operation Centre: 1070
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): 1079
State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA): 0651-225-1709
Conclusion
The heavy rainfall is expected to have a significant impact on the people of Jharkhand. However, by taking precautionary measures, people can stay safe and minimize the damage caused by the rain.
