Patna: Heavy rains accompanied by strong winds lashed large parts of Bihar on Wednesday, including the state capital Patna, marking the arrival of an intense monsoon spell. The downpour, which began on July 15, has disrupted normal life across the state, with warnings of further extreme weather issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
In Patna, waterlogging on major roads caused traffic snarls, while strong winds brought down trees and electric poles in several areas. A large tree collapse on Boring Road, a prominent stretch in the city, led to hours of traffic disruption and power cuts. Patna Municipal Corporation began clearing operations, but residents were left grappling with traffic standstills and sweltering humidity due to the electricity outage.
Locals reported that vehicular movement on Boring Road was severely affected for nearly three hours during the morning peak. The power cut added to the discomfort, particularly amid soaring humidity levels.
The IMD has sounded an orange alert for the state, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall across all 38 districts of Bihar, with particularly intense spells expected in Rohtas and Bhabua. Districts such as Buxar, Aurangabad, Arwal, Jehanabad, and Nalanda are also likely to receive significant rainfall. The alert includes warnings of lightning, especially in Bhojpur, Kaimur, and parts of south-western Bihar. Farmers have been urged to avoid open fields and take shelter in concrete structures.
Meteorologists warn that the current spell may be just the beginning of more severe monsoon activity. The monsoon trough line currently passing through Bihar, coupled with a low-pressure system over Jharkhand and South Bihar, is creating intense moisture buildup, fuelling the heavy rains.
Flood concerns are mounting, with the Ganga crossing the warning mark at Gandhi Ghat in Patna and nearing danger levels in Munger. Rising water levels have also been recorded in rivers such as the Kosi, Kamla, and Gandak, prompting fears of flooding in several low-lying areas.
The IMD has advised residents to remain indoors, secure doors and windows, and avoid non-essential travel. Authorities are urging people to stay alert and follow safety guidelines issued by local administrations.
