Cold Wave Hits Jharkhand: Simdega Records 5.7°C, Temperature Expected to Rise Over Next 5 Days

Ranchi: A severe cold wave gripped Jharkhand on Thursday, with temperatures plunging across several regions. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Simdega recorded the lowest minimum temperature in the state at 5.7°C, while the state’s average minimum temperature remained below 10°C.

Temperature Across Districts

The IMD reported that northern and north-eastern winds at lower atmospheric levels caused the temperature drop. Gumla and Khunti recorded minimum temperatures of 5°C and 6°C, respectively. Lohardaga and Hazaribagh registered 7.3°C and 7.5°C, while the state capital Ranchi recorded 8.5°C. Latehar and West Singhbhum recorded 8.2°C and 9°C, respectively.

Forecast: Gradual Rise Expected

Abhishek Anand, Deputy Director of the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, said the minimum temperature may remain this low for one more day. However, over the next five days, it is expected to rise by 3–5°C.

Government Measures to Protect Citizens

In response to the cold wave, the State Disaster Management Department has released ₹79 lakh for 24 districts to provide relief. Disaster Management Minister Irfan Ansari instructed all District Commissioners to ensure adequate arrangements of bonfires at key junctions, markets, railway stations, and other crowded areas. He emphasized that the cold wave most severely affects economically weaker families, and it is the government’s responsibility to ensure that no one suffers due to extreme cold.