Patna: A powerful pre-monsoon weather system known as “Kal Baisakhi” has become active over Bihar, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue orange and yellow alerts for several districts. The alert covers most parts of the state, particularly North and East Bihar, for the next 24 hours.
According to the weather department, strong winds with speeds ranging between 40 and 60 kmph, lightning strikes and hailstorms are likely between Wednesday night and Thursday. The development has been attributed to the interaction between moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal and a north-western cyclonic system.
Meteorologists said the system may lead to a drop of up to four degrees Celsius in temperature across parts of the state. However, weather conditions are expected to stabilise after April 10.
Meanwhile, Bihar witnessed contrasting weather conditions on Wednesday. Kaimur (Bhabua) recorded the highest temperature in the state at 38.1°C, while Patna experienced light rainfall in the afternoon, bringing relief from the heat. The maximum temperature in the capital settled at 29°C. The highest rainfall in the state was recorded in Kutumba in Aurangabad district, which received 2.6 mm of rain.
Rainfall was reported in 11 districts over the past 24 hours, including Patna, Banka, Gopalganj and Begusarai. Patna witnessed light drizzle in the morning, followed by heavy rain later in the day, making the weather pleasant.
Chhapra recorded the highest maximum temperature among major cities on Wednesday at 34.3°C. However, the ongoing rain and thunderstorms have brought down temperatures in many areas.
The weather department said such conditions are likely to persist for the next one to two days. Residents have been advised to remain cautious as strong winds, thunderstorms and lightning may occur in several districts.
Experts attribute the sudden weather change to the influence of an active western disturbance over North India combined with moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal. Additionally, a cyclonic circulation has developed over the region, increasing atmospheric instability and triggering sudden storms, rainfall and gusty winds.
In Patna, partly cloudy conditions are expected to prevail. While the chances of heavy rainfall remain low, light drizzle may occur at times. Humidity levels are likely to remain high during the day, though temperatures may stay slightly below normal.
The weather department has predicted that conditions may gradually clear in the next two to three days. After that, temperatures are expected to rise again, with maximum temperatures likely to reach between 35°C and 38°C. By mid-April, the state may once again experience intense summer heat.
