Patna: Bihar is experiencing sudden and severe weather, with strong winds, dust storms, rain, and hail affecting several parts of the state. Areas including Bettiah and Bagaha reported hailstorms accompanied by gusty winds, while Patna and other cities remain overcast with intensifying breezes.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for the next three hours in East Champaran, Muzaffarpur, Shivhar, Sitamarhi, West Champaran, Saran, and Vaishali. Residents have been warned of heavy rainfall, thunder, lightning, and strong winds. A general advisory for storms and rain has also been issued across all 38 districts of Bihar.
Wind speeds are expected to reach between 40 and 60 kilometres per hour in several districts, posing risks of fallen trees, uprooted hoardings, and disruptions to the power supply.
Meteorologists attribute the abrupt change in weather to moisture flowing from the Bay of Bengal combined with an active trough line. Rising daytime temperatures have further destabilised the atmosphere, fuelling storms and rainfall.
Patna is forecast to remain overcast, with light rain and gusty winds possible later in the evening. Maximum temperatures are expected to range between 33 and 35°C.
The IMD has urged the public to exercise caution, advising people to avoid open areas, trees, and utility poles. While the rainfall has brought some respite from the heat, the combination of strong winds and precipitation has heightened public concern. Authorities warn that conditions may continue to evolve rapidly in the coming hours.
