Flights Disrupted in Ranchi Due to Dense Fog Following Cyclone Arnab

Dense fog disrupted flight operations at Birsa Munda airport in Ranchi on Friday, resulting in the cancellation of a scheduled flight to Kolkata and a delay of over three hours for an incoming flight from New Delhi. According to reports published by The Times of India, the disruption occurred as rain relented and schools reopened in Ranchi following a precautionary closure linked to cyclone Arnab.

Flight Operations Impacted

• Arrival Delayed: The first Ranchi-bound flight scheduled for 7:15 am landed after 11 am.
• Visibility Drop: Airport director Vinod Kumar stated that visibility dipped below 200 metres, falling short of the required 1,200 to 1,500 metres.
• Cancellations: A scheduled flight to Kolkata was cancelled due to the weather conditions.

Weather Forecast and Rainfall Data

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Ranchi office forecast shallow to moderate fog for Saturday, followed by partly cloudy skies. Light to moderate rain or thundershowers are likely at a few places across Jharkhand.

• Alerts Issued: An alert for rain at isolated places accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 30-40 km/h was issued, with heavy rainfall forecast at isolated locations in Sahibganj, Godda, and Pakur.
• Past 24 Hours Data: Abhishek Anand, scientist and deputy director at IMD Ranchi, reported that light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms occurred at most places in Jharkhand over the 24 hours leading up to 8:30 am on Friday.
• Rainfall Extremes: Balumath in Latehar recorded the highest rainfall at 111.5 mm, while Ranchi received 8.5 mm.

Travelers are advised to verify flight schedules directly with airlines or airport authorities before heading to Birsa Munda airport.