The recent spell of continuous rainfall has severely disrupted normal activities across Jharkhand, as reported on Saturday. Officials noted that many low-lying areas have been submerged, hindering vehicle movement and elevating river levels beyond danger thresholds. Eyewitness accounts highlighted that individuals were navigating through knee-deep water, with numerous vehicles stranded on flooded roads.

In light of the adverse weather conditions, authorities in several districts, including Ranchi and Jamshedpur, have suspended classes from kindergarten through Class 12. As this unprecedented rainfall persists since September 23, districts are facing flood-like scenarios, prompting safety measures from local officials.

Forecast from the India Meteorological Department indicated that some respite may be expected from Sunday, as the weather system is projected to weaken by Saturday evening. This potential improvement has raised hopes that the worst of the situation may soon subside.

Rivers Flowing Above Danger Levels

In East Singhbhum district, the Subernarekha river was reported to be flowing 2.02 metres above the danger level, while the Kharkai river was 4.50 metres above the danger mark. The Deputy Commissioner of East Singhbhum, Rajiv Ranjan, issued advisories urging residents to maintain distances from riverbanks and relocate to safer locations.

Ranjan emphasised the need for vigilance, stating, “The water level of the Subernarekha and Kharkai rivers is above the danger mark. Citizens are urged not to go near the riverbanks, to take shelter in safe high places, and to follow the instructions of the district administration. Stay alert, stay safe!” His message was disseminated via the social media platform X.

In Ranchi, Kanke dam, also referred to as Gonda dam, has recorded a water level of 27.05 feet, nearing its capacity of 28 feet. Officials indicated a similar rise in water levels in other reservoirs in the city, such as the Hatia and Getalsud dams, raising concerns about further flooding risks.

Rainfall Statistics and Regional Impact

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that the depression over north Chhattisgarh and adjoining northeast Madhya Pradesh has shifted north-northwestwards. It is anticipated to gradually diminish into a well-marked low-pressure area within the next 12 hours. The widespread torrential rain has contributed to a reduction in Jharkhand’s rainfall deficit, which now stands at 3 per cent as of Friday.

Between June 1 and September 25, the state has received 962.6 mm of rainfall, compared to a normal of 992 mm. Despite this improvement, eight districts remain with deficient rainfall. Notably, Pakur reported the highest shortfall at 51 per cent, followed by Chatra at 36 per cent and Sahibganj at 33 per cent. According to the IMD, a deviation of 19 per cent in rainfall is deemed normal.

Conversely, eight districts have experienced surplus rainfall, with West Singhbhum leading at 47 per cent overshoot, followed by Seraikela-Kharsawan at 21 per cent and Ranchi at 15 per cent. This apparent disparity in rainfall distribution across Jharkhand’s districts highlights the varied impact of the current weather patterns on the region. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to implement necessary disaster management measures.

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