Patna: A spell of thunderstorms, gusty winds and scattered rainfall is expected across parts of Bihar from March 9, according to the latest forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The alert comes as the state continues to experience a sharp rise in temperatures following the end of winter, with many districts reporting unusually warm conditions for early March.
Yellow Alert For Several Districts
The Patna Meteorological Centre has issued a yellow alert for several districts in north and eastern Bihar, warning of thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds during the coming week.
On March 9, wind speeds of 30–40km per hour are expected in districts including Kishanganj, Araria, Supaul and Madhubani, with thunderstorms possible in isolated areas.
The alert will extend further on March 10 to districts such as Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Supaul, Madhepura, Araria, Purnia, Katihar and Kishanganj.
Meteorologists have also warned that the impact could spread to parts of south Bihar on March 11. Districts including Kaimur, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Gaya and Nawada may witness thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds.
Rainfall Likely Across The State
Weather officials say light to moderate rainfall may occur in several parts of Bihar between March 9 and March 11.
North Bihar, the Kosi and Seemanchal regions are expected to see scattered showers, while rain-related activity may also affect Patna and districts in south Bihar during this period.
The changing weather pattern could offer temporary relief from the rising heat that has been building across the state over the past week.
Weather Systems Behind The Change
According to meteorologists, a cyclonic circulation currently active over northern Odisha and nearby regions is influencing atmospheric conditions in eastern India.
In addition, a western disturbance is expected to become active over the western Himalayan region from March 9, which may further contribute to instability in the weather across Bihar.
Temperatures Continue To Rise
Despite the forecast of rain, temperatures across the state have been steadily rising.
Motihari recorded the highest temperature in Bihar on March 6 at 33.6C. Several other cities including Patna, Muzaffarpur, Valmiki Nagar, Chhapra, Buxar, Kaimur, Dehri, Aurangabad, Arwal, Gaya and Jehanabad recorded daytime temperatures between 30C and 33C.
The IMD has said that both maximum and minimum temperatures may increase by another 1–3 degrees Celsius over the next 24 hours before the expected weather change sets in.
