Patna: The southwest monsoon remains active over Bihar, but rainfall activity has remained weak, leading to rising humidity and sultry conditions across several parts of the state. Bright sunshine has intensified the heat in Patna and other districts, while temperatures in six districts of north Bihar have approached the 40-degree Celsius mark.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall in 15 districts of Bihar on Thursday. The weather department has also warned of thunderstorms and lightning in several areas.
Rainfall is expected to increase across the state from August 14 to 18, with Patna and several other districts likely to receive heavy showers at times.
Bihar records 38% rainfall deficit
Bihar has received significantly less rainfall than normal this monsoon season. As of August 12, the state should have recorded around 602.6 mm of rainfall, but only 375.1 mm has been recorded so far.
This represents a rainfall deficit of around 38% in the state.
Despite the monsoon being active, rainfall has remained uneven, with some areas receiving heavy showers while others continue to experience hot and humid weather.
Rain forecast for August 14
The IMD has warned of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning in several districts on August 14.
The districts likely to be affected include Gaya, Jehanabad, Patna, Kaimur, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Nalanda, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai, Begusarai, Saran, Vaishali, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Saharsa, Supaul, Purnia, Kishanganj, Katihar, Khagaria and Munger.
Residents have been advised to remain cautious during thunderstorms, particularly because of the risk of lightning strikes.
Rain likely to continue through August 16
On August 15, the weather is unlikely to remain completely clear. Cloudy conditions are expected across several districts, with light to moderate rainfall possible in some areas. Rainfall activity is also expected to increase in north Bihar.
On August 16, several parts of the state could continue to receive rain, with north and eastern Bihar likely to see greater rainfall activity.
Some areas to remain hot and humid
According to weather experts, Bihar is likely to experience fluctuating weather conditions over the next few days. Changes in the position of the monsoon trough, along with moisture-laden winds, could increase rainfall activity in parts of the state.
However, rainfall is unlikely to be uniform across Bihar. While some districts may experience heavy showers and thunderstorms, others could continue to face hot and humid conditions.
The monsoon trough is expected to shift northwards in the coming days, potentially pushing the focus of rainfall towards the Himalayan foothills and northeastern parts of Bihar.
Residents are advised to follow IMD updates and exercise caution during thunderstorms and lightning.
