Heavy and continuous rainfall lashed the city and other parts of the district over the past 24 hours, throwing daily life out of gear and triggering waterlogging in multiple low-lying areas. In one of the most alarming incidents, 162 school children were left stranded at Lav Kush Residential School under Kowali police station limits due to severe water accumulation caused by the relentless downpour.
In a swift and coordinated response, teams from Jamshedpur Police braved adverse conditions to reach the school premises and safely evacuate all the children. “Under the Kowali police station, 162 children stranded at Lav Kush Residential School due to heavy rainfall were successfully rescued by the Jamshedpur Police and handed over to their families,” the police said in an official statement. The operation was carried out through the night as water continued to rise around the premises.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of no immediate respite, predicting widespread rainfall across Jharkhand in the coming days. According to the latest bulletin issued by the Meteorological Centre, Ranchi, monsoon activity remains vigorous throughout the state. Light to moderate rain or thundershowers are likely to occur at most places at least until July 5.
On June 29 and 30, isolated areas of southern and central Jharkhand are expected to receive extremely heavy rainfall, further raising the risk of flooding and waterlogging. Northwestern and northeastern districts could also see heavy showers accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds blowing at speeds between 30 to 40 km per hour.
The IMD attributed the intense monsoon activity to a low-pressure area over the Northwest Bay of Bengal and its associated cyclonic circulation, which are moving west-northwestward. Additionally, the monsoon trough currently running through Bihar and West Bengal is causing widespread rainfall and creating challenging conditions for emergency response teams across the state.
Rainfall figures over the last 24 hours have broken several records in the region. Baharagora in East Singhbhum recorded an extraordinary 306.8 mm of rain, followed closely by Ghatshila with 298.4 mm and Chakulia with 127.6 mm. Even areas further inland, such as Ranchi, saw significant precipitation, with 11.4 mm of rain recorded and temperatures dipping to 29.7 degrees Celsius—about 1.5 degrees below normal for this time of year.
Looking ahead, the IMD has issued further warnings for July 1 and 2, forecasting very heavy rainfall in north-western and adjoining parts of north-central Jharkhand. Some districts in the northeast are likely to experience heavy downpours and thunderstorms, potentially worsening the flooding situation. In Ranchi, the weather office has predicted generally cloudy skies with heavy to moderate rainfall continuing until at least July 1, followed by scattered thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain in the range of 26 to 28 degrees Celsius, offering little relief from the damp conditions.
According to cumulative data, Jharkhand has already received 81% above normal rainfall this monsoon season, with Ranchi district alone recording an astounding 198% surplus. Authorities have advised citizens to stay indoors, avoid venturing near swollen rivers or waterlogged areas, and remain alert to official advisories.
Flood alert for Swarnarekha and Kharkai River banks
Jamshedpur : In view of the continuous rise in water levels and the potential risk of flooding, the district administration has issued an appeal urging people living along the Swarnarekha and Kharkai rivers, as well as residents of other low-lying areas, to remain cautious and avoid going near the riverbanks.
Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi, while emphasizing the paramount importance of public safety, advised citizens to stay alert and strictly follow any instructions issued by the administration in case of an emergency. “The water level of the rivers may increase suddenly, creating a flood-like situation. People are requested to move to safer higher places during heavy rainfall,” he said.
Officials from urban bodies, along with the Sub-Divisional Officer, Block Development Officers, and Circle Officers, are carrying out regular visits to the affected areas to monitor the situation closely. The administration has assured that all necessary measures are being taken to safeguard lives and property.
Residents have been asked to extend full cooperation and remain vigilant so that loss of life can be averted. In case of any emergency or for assistance, citizens can contact the district control room on 0657-2444233.
