Between June-September, rain-related incidents claimed 458 lives in Jharkhand
What's the story
Jharkhand experienced its worst monsoon in a decade, with the season claiming at least 458 lives from June to September. The heavy rains and subsequent disasters have also left thousands of homes damaged and farmlands devastated. Official data shows that lightning strikes killed 186 people, while 178 others drowned in rain-related incidents. Floods, landslides, and house collapses accounted for the remaining casualties.
Rainfall impact
Thousands of houses, farmlands damaged
The monsoon season has also destroyed 467 houses completely and partially damaged over 8,000 others. Crops spread across 2,390 hectares were lost in districts such as Ranchi, Gumla, Lohardaga, and Simdega. In Sahibganj district alone, rising water levels of the Ganga River displaced around 20,000 people.
Climate impact
Highest rainfall in a decade
The Ranchi Meteorological Centre recorded 1,199.5 mm of rainfall from June 1 to September 30 this year, which is an 18% increase over normal levels. Abhishek Anand, the center's director, said it was the highest rainfall in a decade and attributed it to climate change and rising sea surface temperatures in the Bay of Bengal.
District impact
Unusual activity in Bay of Bengal
The Bay of Bengal's unusual activity this season caused repeated heavy downpours across eastern and southeastern districts. According to PTI, East Singhbhum recorded the highest rainfall at 1,669.5 mm, followed by Ranchi (1,550.2 mm) and Saraikela-Kharsawan (1,526.3 mm). Each of these districts recorded more than 50% of normal rainfall for the season.
Weather forecast
What does IMD predict?
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a "pink cold," or mild winter, around Diwali and Chhath Puja. However, Anand said the severity of winter will depend on global factors like La Niña and changes in wind patterns. Although rainfall activity is declining now, isolated moderate rain with thunder and lightning is expected till October 12 before dry conditions prevail as the monsoon withdraws.