Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a seven-day high alert for widespread rainfall across Bihar, forecasting moderate to heavy showers from July 6 to July 12 as the southwest monsoon regains strength after an extended dry spell.
For nearly three weeks, the state witnessed significantly below-normal rainfall, raising concerns among farmers and residents. According to IMD data, Bihar had received only 103 mm of rainfall against the normal 230.1 mm as of July 6, leaving the state with a rainfall deficit of around 55%.
Cloudy skies prevailed over Patna and several other parts of the state on Tuesday morning, with the weather department predicting heavy rainfall in many districts over the next 48 hours. Meteorologists also expect the monsoon to strengthen further during the next seven to ten days, increasing rainfall activity across Bihar.
Over the past 24 hours, several districts witnessed showers. Patna received a brief spell of rain accompanied by strong winds on Sunday evening. Heavy rainfall was also reported from Supaul, Samastipur, Ara, Buxar, Sasaram and Aurangabad, while Banka, Nalanda and Jamui experienced widespread showers later in the day. Katihar remained cloudy for most of the day.
The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall in Araria, Kishanganj and Supaul on July 7. On July 8, heavy showers are likely at isolated places in Araria, Kishanganj, Madhubani, Purnia and Supaul. Between July 9 and 10, light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms is expected across north and northeast Bihar. On July 11, heavy rainfall is likely at isolated locations in Bhagalpur, Katihar and West Champaran.
Weather experts said the earlier weakening of the monsoon was caused by the formation of a low-pressure area near the Odisha coast in the Bay of Bengal, which shifted the monsoon trough southward. In the absence of any strong western disturbance or other significant weather systems over Bihar and adjoining regions, monsoon activity remained subdued.
Although humidity levels remain high and temperatures are expected to make conditions feel hotter than the actual air temperature due to a higher heat index, weather officials said rainfall activity is now set to increase across the state.
Latest Weather Updates
- Patna: Dark clouds covered the city on Tuesday morning, with rain expected during the day.
- Samastipur: Around 45 minutes of rainfall on Monday night brought relief from the heat. The maximum temperature was recorded at 34°C, while the minimum settled at 25°C.
- Madhubani: The district remained cloudy on Tuesday morning after receiving rainfall overnight, with more showers likely.
- Sasaram: Rain began early Tuesday morning under overcast skies.
- Aurangabad: Intermittent rain continued on Tuesday morning, bringing cheer to farmers awaiting the paddy transplantation season.
