UditVani, Jamshedpur: Jharkhand is bracing for a sharper winter bite as temperatures continue to plunge across the state.
Gumla emerged as the coldest district, registering a minimum temperature of 5.7°C today, the lowest so far this season, signalling the arrival of a more intense cold spell.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a cold-wave alert for December 5, 6 and 7, warning that isolated pockets of western and adjoining central Jharkhand may experience severe chill.
Districts including Gumla, Simdega, Lohardaga, Latehar, Khunti and parts of Ranchi are likely to be most affected.
Clear skies, persistent dry north-westerly winds and longer winter nights have contributed to the steep fall in mercury levels.
Several other districts dipped below 10°C, indicating that much colder days lie ahead for the region.
Authorities have urged people—especially the elderly, children and those with chronic illnesses—to take extra precautions and limit exposure during early morning and late evening hours.
Farmers have also been advised to shield sensitive crops from potential cold damage.
With the cold wave expected to persist through the weekend, Jharkhand is set for one of the chilliest phases of the season.
