Patna: The southwest monsoon has started weakening over Bihar, with rainfall activity declining across most districts. However, the Meteorological Centre has issued a yellow alert for 13 districts for Saturday, warning of rain accompanied by winds gusting up to 30 kmph and the possibility of lightning.
During the past 24 hours, heavy rainfall was reported in parts of Ara, Saharsa and Khagaria. Khagaria also reported the death of a minor after a lightning strike. Kishanganj recorded the highest rainfall at 134 mm, followed by Madhubani at 46 mm, Araria at 30 mm, Rohtas at 28 mm and Purnia at 12 mm.
Rain deficit unlikely to be recovered
Weather experts said the monsoon season has entered its final phase, making it unlikely that the accumulated rainfall deficit will be fully recovered.
If monsoon activity continues to remain uneven, Bihar is likely to end the season with a significant rainfall shortfall. Experts noted that rainfall distribution across Bihar is often highly uneven, with one district receiving heavy rain while neighbouring areas receive little or no rainfall.
They said a spell of heavy rain lasting one or two days is not enough to eliminate the state’s overall rainfall deficit. The timing and distribution of rainfall are particularly important for agriculture, rather than rainfall occurring only in isolated spells.
Patna likely to feel more humidity than rain
In Patna, the maximum temperature is expected to reach around 35 degrees Celsius on Saturday. Cloudy conditions may persist, with isolated rain or lightning possible in some areas. However, no weather warning has been issued specifically for Patna.
The city recorded 10.9 mm of rainfall on September 17. Relative humidity was 88% in the morning and 76% in the evening. With temperatures rising after sunshine, residents may experience increased humidity and uncomfortable, sticky conditions.
Bihar still faces 36% rainfall deficit
Bihar has recorded around 36% less rainfall than normal so far this monsoon season. The normal rainfall for this period is around 914 mm, while actual rainfall has remained at approximately 573 mm, leaving a substantial gap between normal and recorded rainfall.
Weather likely to remain largely normal until September 22
According to the weather department, no widespread weather warning has been issued for Bihar on September 20, 21 and 22. Weather is expected to remain generally normal across most districts during these three days.
However, localised cloud development and light rainfall may occur at some places.
Proofread version: The report has been edited for grammar, flow, consistency and news-style presentation while retaining the facts provided.
