UditVani, Jamshedpur : The India Meteorological Department’s Ranchi office has issued a cold-wave alert for Palamu, Garhwa, Chatra, Gumla, Latehar, Lohardaga and Simdega on December 5 and 6, warning of a significant dip in night temperatures across western Jharkhand.
Minimum temperatures in several districts are expected to fall to 8–10°C, with isolated pockets likely dropping even further due to clear skies and dry north-westerly winds. The added wind-chill effect may make conditions feel colder than the actual temperature figures.
Early-morning fog and light mist may also impact the region, reducing visibility to around 600–800 metres, which could pose challenges for commuters during dawn hours. Daytime temperatures are likely to remain below normal, offering only mild relief during afternoon hours.
The IMD has urged residents—especially the elderly, children, and those with respiratory or chronic illnesses—to take necessary precautions.
People are advised to use adequate warm clothing, keep living spaces insulated, and avoid early-morning travel unless essential.
With this alert, Jharkhand enters its first pronounced cold spell of the season, aligning with a broader trend of intensifying winter conditions across central and eastern India.
Met statistics indicated downward trend in minimum temperature in most parts of Jharkhand today.
