Patna: Bihar is witnessing a double impact of intense heat and rapidly changing weather conditions, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting rain across the state on Wednesday. An orange alert for heavy rainfall has been issued for 19 districts, while strong winds reaching speeds of up to 60 kmph are also expected over the next few days.
Heavy rainfall lashed Katihar through the night, leading to waterlogging in several low-lying areas. Residents, however, received temporary relief from the scorching heat. The weather department has advised people to remain alert due to the risk of lightning strikes.
According to the Patna Meteorological Centre, rain activity is likely to continue across Bihar for the next five days. The ongoing weather system may bring down temperatures by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius in several districts.
In the last 24 hours, heavy rainfall was recorded in districts including Gaya, Jehanabad and Banka. At the same time, Kaimur remained among the hottest districts, with temperatures nearing 41 degrees Celsius again. Patna residents also continued to struggle with humid conditions despite intermittent cloud cover.
Meanwhile, lightning and storm-related incidents turned fatal in parts of the state on Tuesday. In Jamui district, four people, including a girl child, died after being struck by lightning during thunderstorms and rainfall. Four others sustained burn injuries. In a separate incident in Banka, a 36-year-old woman lost her life after being hit by lightning.
Weather Forecast for Patna
May 13: The capital is expected to witness mainly clear skies, though humid conditions are likely to cause discomfort. The maximum temperature may hover around 37°C, while the minimum is expected to remain near 26°C.
May 14: Clear weather and strong sunshine are likely to push temperatures higher. The maximum temperature may touch 37°C, with humidity levels remaining high during the afternoon hours.
May 15: Partial cloud cover is expected, bringing slight changes in weather conditions. The maximum temperature is likely to settle around 36°C and the minimum around 25°C. Light drizzle or thunder showers may occur in isolated areas.
May 16: Heat conditions are expected to intensify again, with temperatures potentially reaching 38°C. The IMD has advised residents to avoid direct exposure to the sun between noon and 3 pm due to heatwave-like conditions.
The weather department said Bihar is likely to experience unstable weather over the next 48 to 72 hours. While daytime temperatures will remain high, sudden evening thunderstorms and rainfall may occur in many districts. The changing weather pattern could also trigger more incidents of lightning and strong winds.
Agricultural experts have advised farmers to move harvested crops and farming equipment to safer locations in view of the possibility of storms and rain. Residents have also been urged to stay indoors during thunderstorms and lightning activity.
Meteorologists attributed the fluctuating weather to moisture-laden winds coming from the Bay of Bengal and changing atmospheric pressure systems affecting Bihar. While southern Bihar, including Patna, is witnessing rising daytime temperatures, north Bihar and the Seemanchal region are expected to experience more active rain and storm activity in the coming days.
