Patna: Continuous rainfall across Bihar over the past 10 days has brought significant relief from the intense summer heat, with maximum temperatures in all districts remaining below 40 degrees Celsius.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for 14 districts on Friday, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, rainfall and possible hailstorms. Wind speeds of up to 50 kmph are also likely in several areas.
Cloudy skies were seen in Patna, Gopalganj and many other districts since morning. The weather department has also issued a five-day alert for thunderstorms, lightning, rainfall and hail across the state.
According to meteorologists, pre-monsoon activities have become active in Bihar due to continuous moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal and the impact of a western disturbance. Another western disturbance is expected to become active from May 10, which may keep weather conditions favourable and temperatures under control for the next few days.
Heavy rain was recorded in at least five districts, including Jamui, Rohtas and Gaya, during the past 24 hours. Hailstorms were also reported from Gaya, Rohtas and Lakhisarai, while several districts continued to witness overcast conditions.
In Lakhisarai, strong winds accompanied heavy rainfall and hail on Thursday. Similar weather conditions were reported from Sasaram, while rainwater accumulation caused waterlogging on roads in Khagaria.
Four-Day Rain and Thunderstorm Forecast
As per the IMD forecast, Bihar is likely to witness continued rain and thunderstorm activity over the next four days.
May 8: Thunderstorms with rain are likely in several districts of north and east Bihar.
May 9: Strong winds and lightning strikes are expected across most parts of the state.
May 10: South and central Bihar may experience thunderstorms and rainfall activity.
May 11: Light to moderate rain is likely in Seemanchal and south-eastern Bihar districts.
Pleasant Weather Likely in Patna
The weather is expected to remain pleasant in the state capital as well. According to the IMD, Patna is likely to witness cloudy skies, light rain and gusty winds on Friday.
The maximum temperature is expected to remain between 35 and 36 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may hover around 24 to 25 degrees Celsius.
Reduced humidity levels and intermittent winds are likely to provide relief from the heat during the day. However, chances of evening and night-time thunderstorms and rain remain high.
Bihar Records 206% Excess Rainfall in May
Bihar has witnessed monsoon-like conditions in the very beginning of May, with rainfall levels reaching 206 percent above normal so far.
According to the Meteorological Centre in Patna, the state recorded 103.3 mm rainfall till May 7, compared to the normal average of 33.8 mm during the same period.
Continuous rainfall and cool winds have brought Patna’s temperature nearly five degrees below normal levels.
North Bihar has received the highest rainfall, with most districts now falling under the “large excess rainfall” category.
During the last 24 hours, Tetaria in East Champaran recorded the highest rainfall at 59.2 mm. Maharajganj in Siwan received 54.2 mm rainfall, while Pusa in Samastipur recorded 52.6 mm. Heavy rainfall was also reported from Duraundha (52.4 mm) and Nautan (48.6 mm) in Siwan district.
Advisory for Farmers and Residents
The weather department has advised farmers and residents to remain cautious amid the ongoing weather activity.
Farmers have been asked to temporarily stop fieldwork during thunderstorms and keep harvested crops in safe storage areas.
Residents have been advised not to stay in open fields during lightning activity and to avoid standing near trees, electric poles and water bodies during rainfall and thunderstorms.
People have also been warned against taking shelter under weak structures or tin sheds during strong winds.
