Patna: The weather pattern in Bihar has changed, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting rain across the state. An orange alert for heavy rainfall has been issued for 24 districts, while a yellow alert is in place for Patna and 13 other districts.
According to the IMD, a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal is driving increased rainfall activity across several parts of eastern India. Its impact is expected to be felt in Bihar over the next 48 hours, with heavy rain forecast in several districts on August 19 and 20.
Bihar has received 41% less rainfall than normal so far this monsoon. The state has recorded 387.7 mm of rainfall against the normal 687.7 mm for the period.
Patna records heavy rain, waterlogging reported
Patna received heavy rain on Monday, with several areas witnessing waterlogging after around 40 minutes of intense rainfall. In Karbigahia, water accumulated to nearly three feet on the road, causing difficulties for commuters.
Rain was also reported in Gaya, Jamui, Bettiah, Purnia, Supaul, Katihar, Khagaria, Madhepura and Kishanganj, providing relief from humid conditions. Several streets and residential areas in Khagaria were waterlogged following the rain.
Rain forecast across Bihar
In Patna, cloudy conditions are expected to prevail on Tuesday, with light to moderate rain likely in some areas. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for rainfall in the state capital.
On August 19, rain is expected in Ara, Araria, Aurangabad, Bhagalpur, Bodh Gaya, Buxar, Chhapra, Darbhanga, East Champaran, Gaya, Hajipur, Katihar, Motihari, Muzaffarpur and Nalanda. Gusty winds reaching up to 50 kmph may accompany the rain.
On August 20, heavy rainfall is likely across several districts in south Bihar, including Patna, Nalanda, Gaya, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Kaimur, Ara and Buxar. The weather department has issued a specific warning about lightning, while several districts may remain under dense cloud cover for much of the day.
Rain activity is expected to continue on August 21, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. However, the IMD forecast does not indicate a heavy rainfall alert for the day, unlike the period between August 17 and 20.
Why rainfall activity is increasing
Weather experts attribute the increase in rainfall activity to the continuous influx of moisture from the Bay of Bengal and favourable monsoon conditions. The low-pressure area and associated winds are supporting cloud formation over Bihar and neighbouring regions.
The IMD had earlier forecast increased rainfall activity over eastern and central India under the influence of the weather system over the Bay of Bengal.
If the monsoon trough and moisture-laden winds remain favourable, rainfall activity is expected to continue across Bihar over the next few days.
