Patna: The southwest monsoon remains active over Bihar, bringing rainfall to several parts of the state. The Meteorological Centre has issued weather alerts for 19 districts on Thursday, including an orange alert for seven districts in northeast Bihar for heavy rain and strong winds.
Thunderstorms and lightning are also likely at several places in the districts under the orange alert. Residents have been advised to remain cautious during periods of severe weather.
Meanwhile, a yellow alert has been issued for 12 districts in central and eastern Bihar, where light rainfall and winds reaching speeds of up to 30 kmph are expected.
According to the Meteorological Centre, rainy conditions are likely to continue across Bihar over the next few days. Maximum temperatures may also fall by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius during this period.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning in Bihar on August 21, 22 and 23.
Ganga crosses warning levels at three locations
The rising water level of the Ganga has also become a concern in parts of Bihar. At Digha Ghat in Patna, the river was flowing 11 cm above the warning level. The warning level at the location is 49.45 metres, while the Ganga reached 49.56 metres.
At Gandhi Ghat in Patna, the river was 7 cm above the warning level of 48.60 metres, reaching 48.67 metres.
At Hathidah, the Ganga crossed the warning level of 40.76 metres and reached 41.51 metres, or 75 cm above the warning mark.
Light rain likely in Patna
The Meteorological Centre has forecast generally normal weather conditions in Patna on Thursday, with light rain or drizzle possible during the day. Cloudy conditions are expected to continue, while high humidity may make the weather uncomfortable.
On Wednesday, Patna remained cloudy throughout the day. The city recorded 6.6 mm of rainfall until 8.30 am. The maximum temperature was 32.9 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature was 26.8 degrees Celsius.
Nalanda records highest rainfall in 24 hours
Nalanda recorded the highest rainfall in Bihar during the past 24 hours, receiving 78 mm. Gaya recorded 73 mm, followed by Aurangabad with 60 mm, Bhabua with 43 mm and Buxar with 29 mm.
Despite the recent rainfall, Bihar has received 39% less rainfall than normal so far this monsoon season. However, some districts have recorded significantly higher rainfall than normal. Kaimur has received 141% more rainfall than normal, while Aurangabad has recorded 176% excess rainfall.
With more rain forecast over the next few days, the overall rainfall deficit in Bihar is expected to narrow.
