Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for rain and thunderstorms in 19 districts of Bihar on Sunday, warning of gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 50 kmph, lightning strikes, and unstable weather conditions across several parts of the state.
According to the Meteorological Centre in Patna, the prevailing weather pattern is likely to continue till May 15 in north, northeast, and south Bihar. Officials have advised people to remain cautious during thunderstorms and lightning activity.
The weather department said that while several districts may witness rainfall and cloudy conditions over the next few days, temperatures are also expected to rise by up to four degrees Celsius in some areas during the next two to three days before declining again.
In Patna, the sky is expected to remain partly cloudy on Sunday, with chances of light rain or drizzle in some areas. Strong winds may also affect parts of the capital city. The maximum temperature is likely to remain between 34 and 36 degrees Celsius.
The IMD has forecast the following weather conditions over the coming days:
- May 11: Thunderstorm and lightning alert in north-central, northeastern, and southeastern Bihar.
- May 12: Strong winds likely in north Bihar, while south Bihar may witness thunderstorms and lightning.
- May 13 to 15: Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds are expected to continue in northeastern and north-central Bihar.
Meteorologists said pre-monsoon activities in Bihar have remained significantly above normal this year. The state has recorded 193 percent excess rainfall so far during the ongoing pre-monsoon period.
During the last 24 hours, districts including Kaimur, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Gaya, Jamui, Munger, Lakhisarai, Begusarai, and Nalanda received above-normal rainfall.
According to official data, Bihar normally receives around 37.8 mm rainfall during this period, but this year the state has already recorded 111 mm rainfall. Continuous rain activity has also led to a drop in temperatures across several districts, providing relief from intense summer heat.
Purnia district recorded the highest rainfall in the state during the last 24 hours, with nearly 35 mm rain. Good rainfall was also reported from several districts in the Seemanchal and Mithilanchal regions. Cloud cover and strong winds contributed to lower daytime temperatures, making the weather pleasant in many places.
During the last 24 hours, the maximum temperature across Bihar ranged between 31.1 and 38.4 degrees Celsius. Kaimur recorded the highest maximum temperature at 38.4 degrees Celsius, while Gaya reported the lowest temperature at 19 degrees Celsius. Patna recorded a maximum temperature of 33.9 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, the health department has directed all Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs) in Patna district to remain prepared for emergencies related to heatwaves, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes.
Patna Civil Surgeon Dr. Yogendra Prasad Mandal said all health centres have been placed on alert mode in view of the rising risk of heatstroke and recent incidents of thunderstorms and lightning.
Hospitals have been instructed to ensure adequate arrangements for treatment of heatstroke, dehydration, unconsciousness, burn injuries, and trauma cases. Emergency wards have been asked to remain operational with sufficient stocks of medicines, oxygen, saline, ORS packets, ice, lifesaving drugs, and first-aid materials.
