Patna: The southwest monsoon has intensified across Bihar, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an Orange Alert for 26 districts on Saturday, warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of up to 40 kmph.
Intermittent rain, which began in Patna on Friday night, continued into Saturday morning, bringing relief from the heat but raising concerns over waterlogging and lightning-related incidents. The weather department has advised residents to avoid open spaces, trees and electric poles during thunderstorms and to remain indoors whenever possible.
The remaining 12 districts of the state are also expected to witness cloudy skies throughout the day. While significant rainfall may not occur in all these areas, high humidity and sultry weather are likely to cause discomfort.
Over the past 24 hours, rainfall was recorded in 13 districts, including Patna and Purnea. Several low-lying areas experienced waterlogging following the showers. In Saharsa district, two separate lightning strikes claimed the lives of a minor and a woman.
Why is Bihar witnessing persistent rainfall?
According to IMD experts, the prevailing weather conditions are primarily due to the active monsoon trough near Bihar, coupled with a continuous inflow of moisture-laden easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal.
The interaction of these two weather systems has maintained high moisture levels in the atmosphere, leading to rapid cloud formation and widespread rainfall activity. As a result, several districts have been experiencing thunderstorms, strong winds and intermittent showers.
Meteorologists have said that similar weather conditions are likely to persist across most parts of Bihar for the next 24 to 48 hours, with isolated places expected to receive heavy rainfall.
Patna Weather Forecast
Patna is expected to remain under cloudy skies throughout Saturday, with light to moderate rainfall likely in several parts of the city. Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds reaching up to 40 kmph are also expected.
Although rainfall may lead to a slight drop in the maximum temperature, humidity levels are likely to remain high, preventing complete relief from the muggy conditions.
The IMD has urged residents of Patna and other affected districts to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during thunderstorms, and immediately move to safe shelter in the event of lightning.
