Jharkhand is experiencing a sharp drop in temperatures as the winter chill tightened its grip over the state. Sub-10 temperatures returned to several districts, including Ranchi, Chatra, Lohardaga, and Simdega, bringing a renewed sense of winter’s chill.

The state capital, Ranchi, recorded a minimum temperature of 10 degrees Celsius today, marking a significant dip. Neighboring Lohardaga experienced even colder conditions, with the mercury plummeting to 9 degrees Celsius. Chatra and Simdega recorded minimum temperatures of 10.1 degrees Celsius and 10.2 degrees Celsius, respectively.

The automated weather station at Khunti registered a low of 9.2 degrees Celsius, while Hazaribagh followed closely with a minimum temperature of 10.5 degrees Celsius. The widespread chill has been attributed to the restoration of cold and crisp north-westerly winds sweeping across the state.

Experts at the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) Ranchi Meteorological Centre indicated that the cold wave is likely to intensify in the coming days.

“The minimum temperature is expected to drop further by 2-3 degrees Celsius over the next 72 hours,” stated a senior meteorologist. The forecast suggests that residents should brace for colder nights and mornings as winter peaks.

Despite the intensifying chill, the IMD has ruled out the possibility of rain or any adverse weather conditions on New Year’s Day. This comes as a relief to those planning outdoor celebrations to welcome 2025.

The abrupt temperature drop is already impacting daily life across the state. Morning fog and frost are expected to make travel conditions challenging, while residents in colder districts are bundling up to cope with the freezing conditions. Schools, offices, and marketplaces are witnessing reduced activity during the early hours due to the icy winds.

Rural areas, particularly in districts like Khunti and Lohardaga, are experiencing harsher conditions, with many villagers relying on traditional methods such as bonfires to combat the cold. Urban areas, meanwhile, are seeing a surge in demand for warm clothing and heaters.

The state meteorological department is closely monitoring the temperature trends and has advised residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the cold. Health experts have urged people to stay indoors during peak cold hours, keep themselves warm, and remain hydrated to avoid winter-related ailments.

As Jharkhand rings in the new year, the biting chill is likely to remind residents of the harshness of winter. While the festive spirit remains intact, the intensified winter weather adds a frosty twist to the celebrations.