Fri Mar 21 18:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Jharkhand Braces for More Rain, Hailstorms After Heavy Downpour
**Ranchi, Jharkhand, March 21, 2024** – Jharkhand has experienced widespread rainfall since March 20th, bringing much-needed relief from the heat. The downpour, accompanied by strong winds and hailstones in several districts, has caused damage to crops, particularly spinach and coriander.
On Friday, Ranchi experienced a sudden darkening of the sky at 9:45 AM, followed by half an hour of heavy rain. Similar weather patterns were observed in Hazaribagh, Ramgarh, Palamau, Latehar, and Lohardaga.
The Meteorological Center Ranchi has issued an orange alert for March 22nd and 23rd, predicting further rainfall and hailstones in several areas. Wind speeds of 30-40 km/h are expected. Chaibasa recorded the highest rainfall at 54 mm, while Ranchi recorded 23.4 mm, Jamshedpur 8 mm, and Khunti 18 mm.
**Forecast:**
* **March 22nd:** An orange alert is in effect for several districts, including East and West Singhbhum, Saraikela, Ranchi, Bokaro, Gumla, Hazaribagh, Khunti, Ramgarh, Koderma, Lohardaga, Dhanbad, Giridih, and Santhal Parganas, with wind speeds reaching 40-50 km/h and a high probability of rain and thunderstorms. A yellow alert has been issued for Palamau, Garhwa, Chatra, and Latehar.
* **March 23rd:** An orange alert remains in effect for many of the same districts, with wind speeds of 30-40 km/h and a continued risk of rain and thunderstorms. A yellow alert continues for Palamau, Garhwa, Chatra, and Latehar.
* **March 24th:** The weather is expected to clear, with an increase in temperatures.
**Crop Damage:** Farmers in several districts, including Ranchi, have reported significant crop damage due to the heavy rain and hail. Reports indicate that spinach and coriander plants have been particularly affected. The extent of the damage is still being assessed.
First Piper 