IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Rain in South Bihar; 19 Districts on Watch
Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for rain and thunderstorms in 19 districts of South Bihar on Saturday, with wind speeds expected to reach 30 to 40 km/h. In contrast, North Bihar is likely to see partly cloudy skies with light rain or drizzle in isolated areas.
The IMD has forecast continued rainfall activity in South Bihar for the next two days, while the intensity in the north and border districts is expected to remain light to moderate.
Weather Snapshot: Contrasting Patterns Across Bihar
On Friday, heavy showers lashed Patna and Motihari, bringing welcome relief from the sweltering heat. In contrast, districts such as Kishanganj, Nalanda, and Samastipur experienced clear skies or only light clouds.
Motihari recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 36°C, followed by Patna at 35.5°C. Banka, meanwhile, recorded the lowest temperature at 32.3°C.
According to IMD scientist Ashish Kumar,
“Rainfall will continue for the next two days, after which weather conditions are expected to stabilize. The monsoon trough line is currently closer to the southern part of Bihar, leading to cloud formation and precipitation in these areas.”
Rainfall Stats: Nawada Leads, Bihar Below Seasonal Average
During the past 24 hours, Nawada received the highest rainfall in the state at 58.4 mm, followed by:
- Gaya: 36.2 mm
- Bhojpur: 26.4 mm
- Jamui: 20.6 mm
- Madhepura: 18.6 mm
Despite these showers, Bihar’s cumulative rainfall this monsoon has been about 40% below normal.
The state should have received 207.3 mm of rain by now, but has only recorded 123 mm, as per IMD data.
High Humidity Ahead: Patna, Gayaji, Nawada Among Worst Affected
As per the IMD, humid conditions will persist in 5–6 districts, including Patna, Nalanda, Gayaji, Aurangabad, and Nawada. Temperatures are forecast to range:
- Maximum: 30–36°C
- Minimum: 24–28°C
Scientist Ashish Kumar warned:
“Rain may bring some drop in temperature, but the humidity levels will remain high. People are likely to experience discomfort due to the combination of heat and moisture.”
Outlook for July: Monsoon to Remain Weak
Meteorologists have also lowered expectations for rainfall in July, which normally sees 340.5 mm of precipitation. This year, due to a weak monsoon system, the state is unlikely to meet its monthly average.
“The monsoon trough is not shifting northward and remains more active over Jharkhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. As a result, rainfall in Bihar has been significantly reduced,” explained Ashish Kumar.
Impact on Agriculture and Daily Life
The double challenge of less rainfall and higher-than-normal temperatures is expected to create difficulties for farmers, who depend heavily on monsoon rains for kharif crop sowing. Simultaneously, urban residents will continue to struggle with sticky, oppressive humidity, particularly when the sun breaks through after showers.
“This weather may delay fieldwork and disrupt agricultural operations, while also affecting the health and comfort of the general population,” said an agriculture department official.
