Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in five districts of Bihar today, even as a severe heatwave continues to affect large parts of the state. A yellow alert has also been issued for rain in three districts, while 31 districts remain under a heatwave warning.
The weather took a dramatic turn late Monday night in several districts including Patna, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, and Motihari. Heavy rain, accompanied by strong winds reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h, brought much-needed relief from the scorching heat.
Patna, Motihari Record Highest Temperature
Despite the rainfall, Patna and Motihari remained the hottest districts in the last 24 hours, both recording a maximum temperature of 41°C. Gaya, Rohtas, and Muzaffarpur also reported temperatures above 40°C, indicating continued heat stress in central and southern Bihar.
31 Districts Under Heatwave Alert
According to the IMD, heatwave conditions are likely to persist in 31 districts of Bihar on Tuesday, with maximum temperatures expected to exceed 40°C in most areas. The affected districts include Arwal, Aurangabad, Banka, Begusarai, Bhagalpur, Bhojpur, Buxar, Darbhanga, East Champaran, West Champaran, Gaya, Gopalganj, Jamui, Jehanabad, Kaimur, Khagaria, Lakhisarai, Madhubani, Munger, Muzaffarpur, Nalanda, Nawada, Patna, Rohtas, Samastipur, Saran, Sheikhpura, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Siwan, and Vaishali.
Begusarai remained cloudy on Tuesday morning, offering slight respite as the state braces for another round of temperature spikes during the day.
Rain Likely from May 15: Pre-Monsoon Activity Expected
The IMD has predicted a significant weather shift beginning May 15, with pre-monsoon rain expected across Bihar. Thunderstorms and moderate rainfall are likely between May 15 and 17, particularly in the north-west, north-central, north-east, south-central, and south-east regions of the state.
Meteorologists say the current influence of westerly winds will give way to moist easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal after May 15. These humid winds are likely to interact with the hot air already present over the region, potentially triggering thunderstorms and rain.
Relief with Caution
While the expected rainfall may provide temporary relief from the ongoing heatwave, authorities have advised residents to remain alert, especially during thunderstorms. The IMD has urged caution, particularly in districts under red and yellow alerts, due to the risk of lightning, strong winds, and potential waterlogging.
