Patna: Weather conditions across Bihar have changed significantly over the past two days, with strong winds and widespread rainfall reported in several districts. In some areas, hailstorms were also recorded, according to officials from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The Meteorological Centre has issued a yellow alert for rainfall in six districts of the state on Sunday. The alert indicates the possibility of light to moderate rain accompanied by gusty winds.
According to the IMD, cloudy conditions are likely to persist across Bihar for the next week, with intermittent rainfall expected in some districts. During this period, the maximum temperature is forecast to remain between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius, providing temporary relief from the rising summer heat.
On Saturday, intermittent rain was reported from most districts. Heavy showers were recorded in Patna, Banka, Gopalganj, Motihari, Bagaha, Bettiah, Sitamarhi and Khagaria. In parts of Patna, hail accompanied the rain.
Storms Cause Crop Damage, Infrastructure Loss
Strong winds and rain have caused considerable damage to crops in several districts. Farmers reported losses to standing wheat and maize crops due to the sudden change in weather conditions.
In Araria district, strong winds toppled a BSNL tower. Two people riding a scooter narrowly escaped injury when the tower collapsed nearby.
Several districts also reported crop damage and waterlogging. In Madhepura and Bhagalpur, heavy rainfall led to standing crops being submerged in water. In Bettiah, intense rain resulted in waterlogging in many localities. In Nalanda, lightning struck a palm tree, causing it to catch fire.
Seven Killed, Several Injured in Lightning and Storm-Related Incidents
At least seven people have died and several others have been injured in storm and lightning-related incidents across the state over the past two days.
In Gaya district, two farmers died after being struck by lightning in separate incidents. In Dumaria block’s Chakrabandha area, farmer Mahendra Yadav was working in his field when lightning struck during a sudden thunderstorm, killing him on the spot. His buffalo, tied nearby, also died in the incident.
In another incident in Kolhna village under Wazirganj police station limits, 50-year-old farmer Manoj Kumar Singh died after lightning struck on Friday evening while he was returning from the fields with his father and labourers.
In Jamui district’s Chakai area, a 15-year-old student, Ragini, died after being struck by lightning.
In Mokama in Patna district, ten labourers were injured when lightning struck while they were harvesting crops in the Chintamanichak Tal area on Friday evening. They were rushed to a trauma centre, and officials said their condition is now stable.
In Araria, strong winds and rain on Friday night caused a house wall to collapse in Darbhanga Tola of Forbesganj, injuring three children. Five-year-old Munazir later died during treatment. Earlier, a three-year-old boy, Shivam Kumar, died after a thatched house collapsed in Kothihat.
In Kishanganj, a woman also died after being struck by lightning.
Weather Department Issues Safety Advisory
The Meteorological Department has urged people to remain cautious during adverse weather conditions. Officials advised residents to avoid open spaces during thunderstorms and strong winds.
Farmers working in fields have been particularly advised to remain alert. People have also been warned to stay away from trees and electric poles due to the risk of lightning strikes.
Western Disturbance, Bay of Bengal Moisture Behind Rainfall
According to meteorologists, the rainfall in March is being triggered by a western disturbance combined with moisture coming from the Bay of Bengal. The interaction of these systems is causing atmospheric instability, leading to cloud formation and rainfall across several districts.
Changes in wind direction and increased moisture levels are also creating favourable conditions for lightning activity.
Cloudy Weather Expected in Patna
In Patna, cloudy skies are expected to persist for the next few days, with light rain likely at intervals. Daytime temperatures will hover around 33 to 34 degrees Celsius, while nights may feel slightly cooler.
The cloud cover and rainfall are expected to bring temporary relief from the heat.
