Patna: At least five people have died across Bihar following a spell of storms, heavy rain and lightning, as changing weather conditions disrupted normal life in several districts.
Rainfall intensified on Saturday morning in parts of north Bihar, with heavy showers reported in Bettiah and Bagaha, while light rain continued in districts including Patna, Muzaffarpur and Raxaul. In Raxaul, waterlogging was reported in several areas after sustained rainfall.
Fatalities and damage reported
Authorities said two people died in Gaya after being struck by lightning, while a 15-year-old student, identified as Ragini, died in Jamui’s Chakai area under similar circumstances.
In the Tal region of Mokama, at least 10 labourers sustained burn injuries after a lightning strike.
In Araria, two children were killed and another person injured when a wall collapsed during the storm.
Incidents of lightning striking palm trees were also reported in Patna, Nalanda and Muzaffarpur, with some trees catching fire.
Weather pattern shifts
The change in weather follows heavy storms and rainfall that affected around 15 districts on Friday, with hailstorms reported in several areas.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast continued instability over the next two days, with light to moderate rainfall expected across much of the state. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are also likely in multiple districts.
Alert across districts
Officials have warned of possible thunderstorms and lightning in parts of Kaimur, Rohtas, Buxar, Bhojpur, Saran, Patna, Vaishali, Nalanda, East Champaran, Muzaffarpur, Sitamarhi and Begusarai.
Temperatures are expected to drop by up to 4°C over the next two days, with day and night temperatures likely to remain between 16°C and 23°C.
Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious during adverse weather conditions, particularly in areas prone to lightning and strong winds.
