Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast an active monsoon phase across Bihar, issuing rain alerts for 17 districts on Friday. An Orange Alert has been issued for 12 districts, while five districts remain under a Yellow Alert, with thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds of up to 60 kmph likely in several areas.
According to the IMD, light rainfall has been reported since Friday morning in Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, and Katihar, while dark clouds have covered the sky in Madhubani, where rainfall is also expected later in the day.
The weather department has warned of isolated incidents of lightning, thunderstorms, gusty winds, and heavy rainfall in some parts of the state. Residents have been advised to remain alert and avoid venturing outdoors during severe weather conditions. The IMD said similar weather conditions are likely to persist over the next few days.
Rainfall Deficit Continues Despite Widespread Showers
Over the past 24 hours, rainfall activity across Bihar remained relatively weak, although it was spread across many parts of the state. Sitamarhi recorded rainfall during the period, while Bagaha and Patna witnessed cloudy conditions throughout the day. Patna also received light drizzle during the night.
The IMD said Bihar has received 263.2 mm of rainfall so far this monsoon season, which is 53% below the seasonal normal, indicating that the monsoon continues to lag significantly behind average levels.
The highest rainfall in the last 24 hours was recorded in Amdabad block of Katihar district, where 108.2 mm of rain was measured.
Patna Weather Forecast
Patna is expected to experience a mix of sunshine and cloudy skies on Friday, with the maximum temperature likely to remain around 35°C. Light rain is possible during the evening, although no thunderstorm or heavy rain alert has been issued for the state capital.
Several Districts Still Facing Rainfall Deficit
The IMD said several districts continue to record significantly below-normal rainfall, including Gaya, Rohtas, Kaimur, Aurangabad, Buxar, Bhojpur, Patna, Nalanda, Nawada, Jamui, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Saran, Vaishali, Araria, Purnia, and Supaul.
In contrast, Darbhanga, Begusarai, Samastipur, Bhagalpur, Banka, Katihar, and parts of West Champaran have received normal or above-normal rainfall during the season.
Temperature Update
Kaimur recorded the state’s highest maximum temperature at 36.2°C, while the lowest minimum temperature of 25.5°C was recorded at Bikramganj (Rohtas) and Valmikinagar.
IMD Issues Safety Advisory
The IMD has urged people to avoid open fields, standing under trees, and staying near water bodies during thunderstorms and lightning. Residents have also been advised to stay away from weak structures and electric poles during strong winds.
Farmers have been asked to monitor the latest weather updates before working in fields and to move to safe shelter if thunderstorms develop.
