Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for heavy rainfall in 30 districts across Bihar on Thursday, with several regions expected to witness thunderstorms, lightning, and wind speeds of up to 40 kmph. A Red Alert has also been issued for heavy rainfall in several districts over the next 24 hours as monsoon activity intensifies across parts of the state.
Heavy rainfall has continued since late Wednesday night in Bagaha, bringing down temperatures to around 28°C and providing relief from the prevailing heat. The rain is also expected to accelerate paddy transplantation activities in the region.
According to the IMD, West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Sitamarhi, Sheohar, and Darbhanga are likely to receive heavy rainfall on Thursday. In the Seemanchal region, Araria and Supaul are expected to witness extremely heavy rainfall, while Kishanganj, Purnia, Madhepura, and Madhubani remain under a heavy rain warning.
Meteorologists have also warned of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 30–40 kmph across several districts in North Bihar, urging residents to remain cautious and avoid open areas during adverse weather conditions.
Uneven Monsoon Across Bihar
Although the southwest monsoon has become more active over Bihar, rainfall distribution remains uneven. While Seemanchal and Kosi regions continue to receive substantial rainfall, southern and western districts, including Patna, are still awaiting widespread showers.
Patna and surrounding districts are expected to remain cloudy throughout Thursday, with light rain or drizzle likely at isolated places. The weather department has indicated that no significant change in the prevailing weather pattern is expected over the next seven days, with light to moderate rainfall forecast across most parts of the state.
Weather in the Last 24 Hours
Heavy rainfall was recorded in nine districts, including Khagaria, Bhagalpur, and Darbhanga, on Wednesday. In Gopalganj, one farmer was killed after being struck by lightning, while four others sustained burn injuries, one of whom is reported to be in critical condition.
In Aurangabad, heavy rainfall earlier this week caused severe waterlogging and muddy conditions at the venue scheduled to host Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary’s programme on July 9. The event was subsequently cancelled.
Meanwhile, Bagaha has been receiving continuous rainfall since midnight, while cloud cover and rain are also being reported from Samastipur, Katihar, and Madhubani.
Temperature and Forecast
Despite cloudy conditions, Patna recorded a maximum temperature of 35.4°C on Wednesday, with residents experiencing high humidity and discomfort throughout the day.
The IMD has forecast:
- July 10: Heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning and winds of 30–40 kmph is likely in Madhubani and Supaul. Lightning warnings have also been issued for Araria, Darbhanga, Katihar, Kishanganj, Madhepura, Muzaffarpur, Purnia, Saharsa, Samastipur, and Vaishali. Heavy rainfall is also expected in East and West Champaran.
- July 11: No major weather alert has been issued for Patna, Nalanda, Jehanabad, Gaya, Nawada, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai, and Begusarai. However, cloudy skies with isolated light rain or drizzle are expected, while humid conditions are likely to persist.
Low-Pressure Area Driving Rainfall
According to weather scientists, a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal is drawing moisture-laden monsoon winds toward Bihar, resulting in increased rainfall activity across the state.
The department has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in several districts over the coming days. While temperatures are not expected to change significantly, rainfall is likely to provide some relief from the prevailing heat. Residents have been advised to stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid taking shelter under trees or venturing into open fields during lightning activity.
