Monsoon hits Jharkhand, heavy rain expected
The southwest monsoon has finally reached Jharkhand, now covering 18 out of 24 districts.
IMD says to expect heavy rain on June 18 and 19, with red alerts for East Singhbhum and Saraikela-Kharsawan on June 18, and for Ranchi on June 19.
The rains showed up six days late this year but could help close a big rainfall gap—Jharkhand's been running a 52% deficit since June started.
More downpours expected in Dhanbad, Bokaro, Hazaribagh
Monsoon season is make-or-break for Jharkhand—over 80% of local farmers rely on these rains for their crops and water supply.
Early showers have already helped soil conditions, making it easier to plant paddy (the state's main crop).
If the rain keeps coming, experts say crop yields could really bounce back.
More downpours and thunderstorms are expected soon in places like Dhanbad, Bokaro, and Hazaribagh.