Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert for thunderstorm, rain, and lightning in 14 districts of Bihar for the next 24 hours. Residents have been urged to remain indoors and take precautions, especially during storm activity.
Additionally, light rain is expected in 13 other districts over the next 48 hours. Winds may gust at speeds of up to 35 km/h, the IMD said in its bulletin.
Three Killed in Lightning Strikes
The ongoing spell of inclement weather has turned deadly. One person each died in Gopalganj, Munger, and Rohtas districts due to lightning strikes on Sunday, as thunderstorms swept through parts of Bihar.
The deaths come amid widespread weather disruptions across several regions, where strong winds, heavy rains, and hail have caused havoc.
Heavy Rainfall, Power Outages, and Crop Losses
Nalanda district recorded the highest rainfall in the state in the last 24 hours, with 44.4 mm of precipitation. Rainfall and strong winds also lashed Ara, Bagaha, Lakhisarai, Gopalganj, and Munger, disrupting normal life and damaging property.
In Begusarai, a 132KV electric tower of the Manjhoul-Bakhri line collapsed due to the storm on Saturday night, affecting power supply to over 200 villages in Manjhoul and Bakhri subdivisions.
Meanwhile, hailstorms and heavy rain were reported in Nalanda and Rohtas, while skies remained overcast throughout Sunday in Araria, Buxar, Patna, and Nalanda.
Farmers Suffer Heavy Losses
The unseasonal weather has dealt a severe blow to farmers in several districts. In Lakhisarai, onion fields were inundated due to the rain, while maize crops were flattened by high-speed winds. The crop damage has sparked concerns of financial distress among local farmers.
Weather to Stabilize After April 18
The IMD has predicted that the current spell of thunderstorms and rainfall is likely to subside after April 18, bringing some respite to the state. Until then, authorities have advised people to stay alert and avoid open areas during lightning and storm activity.
