Patna: The southwest monsoon remains active across Bihar, including Patna, but the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that most parts of the state are likely to receive below-normal rainfall during July. The department has also warned that daytime temperatures could rise by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius in the coming days, increasing discomfort due to heat and humidity.
According to the IMD, weather conditions are expected to remain largely normal on Friday. Patna and adjoining districts are likely to witness partly cloudy skies, while high humidity and intermittent sunshine may lead to sultry weather. Light drizzle is possible in isolated parts of the capital later in the day.
Over the past 24 hours, heavy rainfall was recorded in Patna, Buxar, Begusarai, Jamui, Kishanganj and Khagaria districts. During the rain, two people lost their lives after being struck by lightning in Lalpur village of Barh subdivision in Patna district.
Meanwhile, continuous heavy rainfall in Nepal has caused water levels in the Kosi and Bagmati rivers to rise significantly, raising concerns in several districts of north Bihar. In Khagaria, the swelling Kosi River has increased the threat of riverbank erosion, while in Muzaffarpur, the rising Bagmati River has created a risk of flooding in low-lying areas.
Weather Forecast
According to the IMD forecast:
- July 3: Patna is expected to experience humid conditions with partly cloudy skies and the possibility of light showers in isolated areas. Heavy rainfall is likely in Kaimur, Sasaram, Gaya and Buxar districts.
- July 4 to July 6: Heavy rainfall is expected in several districts of north and eastern Bihar, including Muzaffarpur, Bagaha, Madhepura, Saharsa and Gopalganj.
- July 7 to July 8: Widespread rainfall is likely across Bihar, including Patna. A yellow alert has been issued for rainfall in 12 districts of eastern and southern Bihar.
June Rainfall Deficit Raises Concern
The July forecast comes against the backdrop of a weak monsoon in June. Bihar recorded only 87.8 mm of rainfall during the month, which was 46% below the seasonal average.
Although Saraigarh Bhaptiyahi in Supaul district received a record 196.4 mm of rainfall on June 29, it was insufficient to offset the overall rainfall deficit across the state.
June also witnessed intense heatwave conditions. The highest maximum temperature in the state was recorded at 43.6°C in Dehri, while Patna registered a maximum temperature of 41.3°C during the month.
Authorities are closely monitoring river levels and weather conditions, particularly in flood-prone districts, as rainfall activity is expected to intensify over the coming week. Residents have been advised to remain alert, especially in low-lying and riverbank areas vulnerable to flooding and erosion.
