Patna: A sudden shift in weather brought much-needed relief from the intense heat across Bihar, as strong winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall lashed several districts on Wednesday. At least 20 districts, including Patna, witnessed gusty winds accompanied by heavy showers, while dust storms were reported in multiple areas.
The abrupt change in weather led to several incidents of damage, primarily due to falling trees amid high-speed winds. In Buxar, a major accident was narrowly avoided when a tree collapsed onto an e-rickshaw carrying six passengers. All occupants sustained minor injuries and were rescued safely by locals. A separate incident on Station Road saw a large tree fall onto a shop, though no casualties were reported.
In Supaul district’s Pratapganj area, lightning struck a coconut tree in Suriyari Tekuna village, triggering a fire. Meanwhile, in Muzaffarpur, a massive peepal tree fell on a house during the storm, causing significant structural damage. The family inside escaped unhurt.
Patna also experienced heavy rainfall in the evening, bringing relief from soaring temperatures but leading to waterlogging in several low-lying areas, including near the Sai Temple in Patliputra.
The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert in 19 districts and a yellow alert in another 19 districts, warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and wind speeds of up to 50–60 kmph. Hailstorms are also likely in some parts of the state.
According to the weather department, districts such as Kishanganj, Madhubani, and Sitamarhi may receive heavy rainfall at isolated places. Patna is expected to remain cloudy on Thursday, with chances of thunderstorms and heavy rain. However, humidity levels are likely to remain high after rainfall.
Pre-monsoon activity is expected to remain active across Bihar until May 3, with continued chances of thunderstorms, lightning, and rainfall in most parts of the state. Cloud cover and precipitation are also expected to keep temperatures below normal levels over the next few days.
In the past 24 hours, maximum temperatures across most districts have dropped by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius, providing respite from the heatwave conditions. However, Kaimur remained the hottest district, recording a maximum temperature of 41.8°C. Other major temperature readings included 38.6°C in Gaya, 38.1°C in Dehri (Rohtas), 37.4°C in Chapra (Saran), and 37.3°C in Aurangabad.
Power disruptions were also reported in Buxar after trees fell on electricity lines during the storm, affecting supply throughout the night. Electricity was restored in parts of the district, including Chausa and Buxar, around 3 am, while restoration work continued in other areas.
The weather department has advised residents to remain cautious, especially during thunderstorms and strong winds, as the state braces for continued unstable weather conditions over the coming days.
