Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for rain across 27 districts of Bihar, including Patna and Darbhanga, for Tuesday. The department has also warned of thunderstorms and lightning, with wind speeds expected to reach up to 40 km/h in the affected areas.
While parts of the state brace for heavy showers, humid weather conditions are expected to persist in 11 districts. The maximum temperature is likely to range between 34°C and 38°C, with humidity levels hovering around 80 percent, making the heat feel more intense.
Ganga River Water Level Above Danger Mark
Amidst the rainfall, rising water levels in the Ganga river have raised concern. In Patna, the river is currently flowing at 49.13 meters at Gandhi Ghat, which is 0.53 meters above the danger mark of 48.60 meters. Similar increases have been reported at Hathi Dah (42.19 meters, 0.43 meters above danger level) and Digha Ghat. Rising levels have also been observed in the Punpun and Son rivers.
The district administration has been put on high alert. Zonal officers and BDOs have been instructed to intensify surveillance in villages located near the riverbanks. Citizens have been advised not to venture near rivers and to move to higher ground in the event of a flood-like situation. Relief and rescue preparations are underway, according to the Disaster Management Department.
Rainfall Deficit Impacting Agriculture
Despite the current alerts, Bihar continues to face a 42% rainfall deficit this monsoon season. The state has recorded only 235.7 mm of rain so far against the normal 405.7 mm, according to IMD data.
While light to moderate showers were reported in North and East Bihar, West Bihar remained mostly dry. Several districts, including Chapra, Madhepura, and Patna, experienced bright sunshine with no rainfall recorded in the past 24 hours. The ongoing dry spell is affecting paddy transplantation and other Kharif crops, raising concerns among farmers.
Forecast: Humid Heat to Continue, Possibility of Rain Persists
The IMD said that moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal will keep the monsoon active in Bihar over the next two to three days. While scattered rainfall is expected, it may not be sufficient to compensate for the shortfall.
In Patna, hot and humid weather will persist on Tuesday, with partly cloudy skies and a chance of rain in the afternoon or evening. The maximum temperature is expected to be around 36–37°C, and the minimum around 27°C.
On Monday, Motihari was the hottest district, recording a temperature of 37.8°C, while Banka remained the coolest at 33.5°C.
Administration Gears Up for Emergency Response
As rainfall returns and water levels in major rivers continue to rise, the state government has directed all districts to stay prepared for emergency situations. Relief and rescue teams have been put on standby to ensure timely response in case of flooding.
