Patna: The southwest monsoon has become active across Bihar once again, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting widespread rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds across much of the state on July 18. The Meteorological Centre in Patna has issued an orange alert for six districts where intense rainfall is expected, while several other districts remain under yellow alerts.
According to the IMD, light to moderate rainfall was recorded across most parts of Bihar during the past 24 hours. Heavy rain occurred at isolated locations in Gaya, Aurangabad, Siwan and Araria districts, with Dumaria in Gaya recording the state’s highest rainfall during the period.
What the IMD Forecast Says
The Meteorological Centre, Patna, has forecast that monsoon activity will remain strong on July 18, increasing the likelihood of heavy rainfall across large parts of Bihar.
The department has advised that several districts could experience thunderstorms, lightning and wind speeds of 30–40 km/h alongside periods of intense rain.
Orange Alert for Six Districts
The IMD has issued an orange alert for Rohtas, Kaimur (Bhabhua), Bhojpur, Buxar, Arwal and Aurangabad districts in south-west Bihar.
According to the forecast, one or more locations in these districts are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching 30–40 km/h are also expected, prompting residents to remain alert to rapidly changing weather conditions.
Heavy Rain Alert Across Other Parts of Bihar
Apart from the orange alert districts, the IMD has warned of heavy rainfall at isolated locations in Aurangabad, Kaimur (Bhabhua), East Champaran, Gopalganj, Rohtas, Sitamarhi and West Champaran.
The weather department also expects thunderstorms with lightning and wind speeds of up to 40 km/h in parts of north-west, north-central and south-east Bihar.
Officials said weather conditions could vary significantly over short distances, with some areas experiencing brief but intense downpours.
Patna and Neighbouring Districts Under Yellow Alert
The weather is also expected to change across south-central Bihar, including Patna.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Patna, Nalanda, Jehanabad, Nawada, Gaya, Lakhisarai, Sheikhpura and Begusarai, where rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds is forecast at several locations.
While rainfall in these districts is not expected to be as intense as in the orange alert areas, residents have been advised to remain cautious during thunderstorms and avoid open spaces during lightning activity.
Why the Forecast Matters
The renewed monsoon activity is expected to provide further rainfall across Bihar after widespread showers were recorded over the past day. However, intense rain combined with thunderstorms and strong winds could affect road traffic, reduce visibility and lead to localised waterlogging in low-lying areas.
The IMD has advised people in affected districts to monitor official weather updates, avoid sheltering under trees during thunderstorms and take precautions against lightning.
According to the Meteorological Centre, Patna, rainfall activity is likely to continue across many parts of Bihar through July 18 as the monsoon remains active over the state. The department is expected to issue further updates if weather conditions change or additional warnings become necessary.
