Bihar Braces for More Thunderstorms and Lightning till April 19 as Lightning Claims 61 Lives in a Week
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Patna: Bihar continues to witness unstable weather conditions, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing fresh alerts for rain, thunderstorms, and lightning across the state. A yellow alert was issued on Wednesday for 22 districts, with warnings of winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph, while eastern parts of Bihar face the risk of heavy rain and gusts up to 60 kmph.
The state has recorded a notable drop in temperature, with the IMD forecasting maximum temperatures between 34°C and 36°C and minimums ranging from 22°C to 24°C over the next four to five days. Jamui received the highest rainfall in the past 48 hours, recording 48.6 mm.
A change in wind direction, bringing moisture-laden air from the Bay of Bengal, has contributed to the atmospheric instability. The situation is compounded by the growing frequency and intensity of lightning in Bihar, which has become a serious concern in recent years. According to the Bihar Economic Survey, 400 people died due to lightning and thunderstorms in 2022–23. Alarmingly, 61 deaths have been reported in just the past week.
The IMD’s warnings remain in effect through April 19, with different levels of alert issued district-wise. On April 17, yellow alerts covered Patna, Gaya, Buxar, Bhojpur and other districts, while orange alerts were declared for Jamui, Munger, Bhagalpur, and 24 other districts anticipating heavy rain and strong winds.
On April 18, yellow alerts continue for 19 districts, including Patna, Jehanabad, and Champaran regions. An orange alert has been issued for 20 others such as Sitamarhi, Khagaria, and Purnia. On April 19, 17 districts including Kishanganj, Supaul, and Bhagalpur remain under yellow alert.
According to data from the Climate Resilient Observing Systems Promotion Council (CROPC), Bihar recorded around 9 lakh lightning incidents in 2020–21. This figure rose sharply to over 13 lakh in 2022–23, a trend that has continued into 2024.
The IMD and disaster management authorities are urging citizens to remain indoors during storm activity and take lightning warnings seriously, especially in high-risk rural and agricultural zones.
