Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast active monsoon conditions across Bihar over the next 48 hours, issuing an Orange Alert for heavy rainfall in 10 districts on Monday. Rain has been reported since morning in Patna, Samastipur, Begusarai, Lakhisarai and Khagaria, while several other parts of the state continue to experience widespread showers.
The IMD has warned of heavy rainfall in Patna and several other districts on July 21 and 22, urging residents to remain cautious, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
Heavy rain has already disrupted normal life in several districts. In Begusarai, waterlogging was reported on the main road connecting Mansurchak block, with rainwater entering houses located along the roadside. In Khagaria, roads remained inundated following overnight rainfall.
Nine Killed in Lightning Incidents
At least nine people lost their lives in separate lightning strikes across Bihar amid ongoing thunderstorms.
According to reports, Nalanda recorded three deaths, while Saran (Chhapra) and Siwan reported two deaths each. One person each died in Buxar and Rohtas districts.
Most of the victims were farmers and labourers working in fields during paddy transplantation when lightning struck. A teenager also died in Saran district, while one person was reported to be critically injured.
Heavy Rain Recorded in Several Districts
During the past 24 hours, the IMD recorded extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places in Kishanganj and Patna districts. Heavy rainfall was also reported from parts of Araria, Vaishali, Lakhisarai, Purnia, Gaya, Begusarai, Nalanda, Aurangabad and Saran.
The continuous rainfall has caused widespread waterlogging across the state:
- Villages in Bagaha have been inundated after persistent rain.
- Roads in Buxar went under knee-deep water following just a few hours of rainfall, disrupting traffic.
- The Siwan Sadar Hospital campus was submerged under 2 to 3 feet of water.
- Rainwater also entered a school campus in Raxaul.
Bihar Still Faces 41% Rainfall Deficit
Despite the recent spell of rain, Bihar continues to face a significant monsoon deficit.
According to IMD data, the state should have received 382.8 mm of rainfall so far this monsoon season. However, only 224 mm has been recorded, leaving Bihar with a 41% rainfall deficit.
Rising Kosi River Raises Flood Concerns
Continuous rainfall in Nepal has increased water levels in the Kosi River, raising flood concerns in north Bihar.
On Sunday evening, authorities released 2,09,840 cusecs of water from the Kosi Barrage, while the downstream discharge stood at 2,06,440 cusecs.
Following the release of water, more than 20 villages in Darbhanga have been inundated, with at least six villages becoming isolated like islands after road connectivity was cut off.
Residents are relying on boats for transportation, including medical emergencies and access to markets. According to villagers, boat operators are charging ₹40 per passenger.
Weather Forecast
The IMD has predicted that rainfall activity will continue across Bihar on July 21, 22 and 23.
Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected over parts of north and west Bihar, while south and central Bihar are likely to receive light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. A slight drop in maximum temperatures is also expected, providing some relief from humid conditions.
In Patna, cloudy skies are expected throughout Monday, with light to moderate rain likely at several places. Gusty winds may also accompany the showers, while temperatures are expected to decline marginally.
