Yellow Alert for Heatwave in Bihar; Rain Forecast in Seven Districts

Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for heatwave conditions in 23 districts of Bihar for Thursday, warning residents of extreme heat till May 16. Simultaneously, rain and thunderstorms have been forecasted in seven northeastern districts of the state.

According to Ashish Kumar, scientist at the Patna Meteorological Centre, hot and dry westerly winds originating from Central India and Odisha are sweeping through most parts of Bihar. “Due to these seasonal changes, temperatures will rise rapidly, making both day and night feel significantly hotter,” he said.

Rohtas Records Highest Temperature at 43.2°C

In the past 24 hours, six districts in Bihar recorded temperatures above 39°C. Rohtas emerged as the hottest, logging a scorching 43.2°C, followed by Gaya (42.6°C), Banka (41°C), and Patna (40.9°C). No rainfall was recorded in any district on Wednesday, despite an earlier alert for light rain in 32 districts.

Seven Districts May See Rain

The IMD has predicted rain, lightning, and thunderstorms in Saharsa, Madhepura, Purnia, Katihar, Araria, Kishanganj, and Supaul over the next 48 hours. Gusty winds ranging from 30 to 50 km/h may accompany the weather events in northeastern parts.

Weather Forecast Till May 18

• May 15: Thunderstorms with rain, lightning, and wind speeds of 30–40 km/h likely in some northeastern districts. Hot day conditions to prevail in northwestern and southern districts.
• May 16: Thunderstorms and lightning with winds of 40–50 km/h expected in West Champaran, East Champaran, Sitamarhi, Shivhar, Madhubani, and other northeastern areas. Southern Bihar will see hot and humid conditions.
• May 17: Similar stormy conditions predicted in northern districts, while southwestern and south-central regions will remain hot and humid.
• May 18: Thunderstorms, lightning, and wind gusts of 40–50 km/h forecasted in northern Bihar.

Authorities Urge Caution

The IMD has advised residents, especially in North and Central Bihar, to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and stay hydrated. The public has been urged to take necessary precautions to stay safe amid rising temperatures and changing weather conditions.