Patna: The monsoon has strengthened across Bihar, with several parts of the state receiving intermittent rain over the past two days. Continuous showers have pushed up water levels in several rivers, including the Ganga, while waterlogging in different areas has disrupted normal life.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday issued an Orange Alert for heavy rainfall in seven districts and a Yellow Alert for 18 districts.
Weather experts attributed the renewed rainfall activity to a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal and an active weather system near Jharkhand, which are drawing moisture-laden winds into Bihar.
Seven districts under Orange Alert
The heavy rainfall warning covers Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Saharsa, Madhepura, Purnia and Katihar.
Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds is possible in these northeastern districts, and the Meteorological Department has advised residents to remain alert.
18 districts under Yellow Alert
A Yellow Alert has been issued for West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Buxar, Bhojpur, Kaimur, Rohtas, Arwal, Aurangabad, Gaya, Khagaria, Munger, Bhagalpur, Jamui, Banka and Saharsa.
These areas are expected to remain generally cloudy, with light to moderate rainfall possible. Winds of around 50 km/h may accompany showers in some places.
The rainfall could provide temporary relief from humid conditions, although sultry weather is expected to persist.
Patna likely to remain cloudy
Patna is expected to remain cloudy on Thursday, with light rain or thundershowers possible in some areas.
According to the weather department, similar conditions are likely to continue in the capital on September 5 and 6, with the possibility of light rain and thunderstorms.
The remaining districts are expected to experience comparatively normal weather.
Bihar still faces 36% rainfall deficit
Despite the recent increase in monsoon activity, Bihar continues to record a significant rainfall deficit.
The state has received 503.4 mm of rainfall so far this year against the normal 789.6 mm, leaving a deficit of around 36%.
The increased rainfall over the past two days has nevertheless marked a strengthening of monsoon activity across the state.
Temperatures may remain high
Rain is not expected to bring a significant fall in maximum temperatures over the next two to three days.
Maximum temperatures are likely to remain between 34°C and 38°C across the state. Combined with high humidity, this could result in uncomfortable and sticky conditions even when it rains.
Residents near rivers advised to remain cautious
With several rivers in spate and waterlogging reported in different areas, the Meteorological Department has urged residents of low-lying areas and people living near rivers to remain alert.
Residents have also been advised to avoid going near rivers, flooded stretches and waterlogged areas, particularly during periods of heavy rain and strong winds.
