Patna: Bihar is witnessing an unusual shift in weather patterns during Nautapa — the nine-day period traditionally associated with extreme summer heat — as thunderstorms, strong winds and widespread rainfall continue to sweep across the state.
The India Meteorological Department on Thursday issued warnings for heavy rainfall and stormy conditions in several districts, while confirming that temperatures across Bihar have now fallen below the 40-degree Celsius mark.
Officials said there is currently no likelihood of a heatwave anywhere in the state.
Orange Alert Issued for All 38 Districts
The India Meteorological Department has issued an Orange Alert covering all 38 districts of Bihar for Friday.
Heavy rainfall warnings have specifically been issued for the Seemanchal region, particularly for:
- Purnia
- Katihar
The Patna Meteorological Centre said thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds and rain are likely across most parts of the state, including Patna.
Easterly Winds Bring Relief From Heat
Meteorologists attributed the sudden weather change to the strong influence of easterly winds, locally known as Purwa.
According to officials, temperatures have dropped significantly over the past two days, bringing relief from the severe heat and heatwave-like conditions that had affected Bihar earlier this month.
Storms and heavy rainfall have already disrupted life in several districts across North and East Bihar.
The India Meteorological Department said the current conditions were triggered by:
- A cyclonic circulation system over the east-central and south-east Bay of Bengal
- Strong moisture-laden easterly winds moving into Bihar
Rain and Storms Likely Through Weekend
According to the forecast, the spell of storms and rainfall is expected to continue across Bihar over the next two to three days.
Weather activity is expected to remain more intense in North Bihar, where intermittent rainfall and thunderstorms are likely throughout the weekend.
Officials said temperatures may decline further between Friday and Sunday, with a drop of another 3 to 4 degrees Celsius possible in several districts.
What Is Nautapa?
Nautapa is a nine-day period in the Hindu calendar that occurs during the month of Jyeshtha, when the Sun is believed to enter the Rohini Nakshatra.
Traditionally, the phase is associated with intense summer heat and dry weather. This year, Nautapa began on May 25 and will continue until June 2.
The period is considered important for agriculture and monsoon forecasting. According to traditional belief, rainfall during Nautapa is often linked to the possibility of a weaker monsoon season.
Maximum Temperatures Recorded Across Bihar on May 28
The India Meteorological Department recorded the following maximum temperatures across major cities and districts on Thursday:
- Patna – 34.7°C
- Gayaji – 36.5°C
- Darbhanga – 32.6°C
- Chapra – 38.2°C
- Bhagalpur – 32.7°C
- Purnia – 34°C
- Aurangabad – 37.1°C
- Kaimur – 39.9°C
- Dehri – 39.4°C
