Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for 19 districts of Bihar, warning of rain, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of up to 50kmph on Sunday.
The alert comes as changing weather systems over the Bay of Bengal and north India continue to influence conditions across the state. Most districts, including Patna, are expected to witness partly cloudy skies, with intermittent rainfall and thunderstorm activity in several areas.
According to the Patna Meteorological Centre, the current weather pattern is being driven by a cyclonic circulation over the east-central and southeast Bay of Bengal, along with the influence of a western disturbance.
Rain Likely in Several Districts
The districts expected to experience continued rainfall and strong winds include Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Saharsa, Sheikhpura, Purnia, Katihar, West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Siwan and Saran, among others covered by the alert.
Officials have also warned of lightning strikes and advised residents to exercise caution during thunderstorms.
The state has witnessed several days of unsettled weather, with rain and strong winds providing temporary relief from the intense heat that affected Bihar earlier this month.
Heat Set to Return After June 2
Meteorologists have warned that the respite may be short-lived.
As weather conditions turn drier between June 2 and June 4, maximum temperatures are expected to rise by 4C to 5C across large parts of the state.
In south-central Bihar, including Patna, Gaya, Nalanda, Nawada, Begusarai, Jehanabad and Lakhisarai, daytime temperatures could climb to between 40C and 42C.
The expected increase in temperatures is likely to intensify heat conditions, particularly in urban centres and districts that have already experienced prolonged spells of extreme heat this summer.
Bihar Remains in Pre-Monsoon Phase
The IMD said Bihar is currently in its pre-monsoon phase, a period often marked by sharp weather fluctuations.
During this stage, intense daytime heat is frequently followed by the development of clouds, strong winds and evening thunderstorms.
Forecasters said the state’s weather over the coming weeks will largely depend on the progress of the southwest monsoon and the evolution of weather systems over the Bay of Bengal.
Monsoon Expected Around Mid-June
According to the latest forecast, the southwest monsoon is expected to reach Kerala within the next seven days.
If its advance proceeds normally, the monsoon could enter Bihar around June 15.
The IMD has indicated that Bihar is likely to receive normal seasonal rainfall this year, although some other parts of the country may experience below-normal precipitation.
For now, residents are being advised to remain alert to thunderstorms and lightning, while also preparing for a likely return of intense heat in the days ahead.
