Patna: The Bihar Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for rainfall in 24 districts, including Patna, Purnia, and Katihar. Along with heavy showers, winds are expected to blow at speeds of up to 40 km/h.
According to the Patna Meteorological Centre, a low-pressure area may form over the Bay of Bengal on August 27, which could bring heavy rain to eastern and southern Bihar. The department has also issued a special warning for lightning, with conditions expected to improve after August 31.
Floods have already impacted approximately 7.95 lakh people in seven districts: Bhagalpur, Khagaria, Katihar, Lakhisarai, Bhojpur, Vaishali, and Madhepura. In total, 115 panchayats across 24 blocks have been affected. In Patna’s Fatuha block, six villages in Momindpur Panchayat are facing waterlogging, with agricultural fields and several homes submerged.
Heavy Rain in Patna Causes Waterlogging
Patna recorded 37.9 mm of rainfall on Monday, causing significant waterlogging in several areas including Kurji, Pataliputra Colony, Patna Junction, Gandhi Maidan, Khetan Market, and JP Ganga Path. Water levels ranged from 2 to 3 feet, forcing local markets to close temporarily. Roads near Khetan Market and Gandhi Maidan remained submerged, disrupting movement.
In Jehanabad, rivers are in spate, and floodwater has encroached on roads, compelling residents to navigate through waterlogged areas. Similarly, a dozen villages in Hilsa block of Nalanda have been affected by floodwaters.
Rainfall Deficit So Far
Despite recent heavy showers, Bihar has recorded 26% less rainfall than normal this monsoon. The state was expected to receive 732 mm of rain, but only 542.9 mm has been recorded so far, highlighting the uneven distribution of precipitation across districts.
Officials have urged residents in flood-prone areas to remain cautious and follow safety advisories, especially as heavy rain is predicted again on August 28 and 29.
