Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued thunderstorm and rain alerts for 33 districts across Bihar on Wednesday, warning of strong winds, lightning strikes, and changing weather conditions. Of these, 24 districts have been placed under an orange alert, while nine districts are under a yellow alert.
According to the Meteorological Centre, wind speeds could reach up to 60 kmph in the affected areas. The weather activity is expected to bring relief from the prevailing heat, with maximum temperatures likely to fall by 2°C to 4°C over the next 48 hours.
Heavy rain was reported in Bagaha on Wednesday morning, bringing respite from the humid conditions that have persisted across parts of the state.
Some Districts Likely to Continue Experiencing Intense Heat
Despite the rain alerts, districts such as Patna, Rohtas, Gaya and Saran are expected to record maximum temperatures close to 40°C on Wednesday. Areas that do not receive rainfall may continue to experience hot and humid conditions.
Rain and Strong Winds Lash Several Districts
During the past 24 hours, at least 10 districts witnessed heavy rain accompanied by strong winds. The affected districts include West Champaran (Bettiah), East Champaran (Motihari), Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Khagaria, Bhagalpur, Saharsa, Madhepura, Araria and Munger.
In Begusarai, a utility pole collapsed onto an autorickshaw during the storm. The driver escaped unharmed, according to local reports.
Temperature Outlook for the Next Five Days
The Meteorological Centre has forecast maximum temperatures between 36°C and 42°C across Bihar over the next five days. Districts receiving rainfall are likely to record temperatures ranging from 34°C to 38°C, while parts of southwest Bihar may continue to hover around 40°C.
Weather officials indicated that most districts could experience gradual relief from the heat by the end of the week as rainfall activity increases.
Light Clouds, Possible Rain in Patna
The state capital is expected to witness partly cloudy skies on Wednesday, with the possibility of light rain in some areas. The daytime temperature is likely to remain between 38°C and 40°C. Conditions are expected to become relatively pleasant during the evening and night.
Why Is Bihar Experiencing Contrasting Weather Conditions?
Meteorologists attribute the current weather pattern to active pre-monsoon conditions. Moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal are interacting with intense local heating, leading to the formation of thunderclouds and triggering rain and thunderstorms in several districts.
At the same time, regions where cloud development remains limited are experiencing strong solar heating, causing temperatures to climb above 40°C. This has resulted in Bihar witnessing both intense heat and rain simultaneously.
Monsoon Likely to Arrive Soon
The southwest monsoon continues to advance across eastern India, and weather officials expect it to enter Bihar within the next few days.
Experts believe that the monsoon may reach most parts of the state between June 12 and June 15. Once it arrives, rainfall activity is expected to intensify, bringing widespread relief from the ongoing heatwave-like conditions.
Weather Updates from Across Bihar
- Bagaha: Heavy rainfall was recorded on Wednesday morning, providing relief from the heat.
- Supaul: Cloudy skies prevailed, with winds blowing at around 19 kmph. The district is expected to record a minimum temperature of 26°C and a maximum of 36°C.
- Katihar: Dark clouds were seen over the district, and rainfall is likely during the day, according to the weather department.
The IMD has advised residents in alert districts to remain cautious during thunderstorms and avoid taking shelter under trees or near electric poles during lightning activity.
