Patna: Residents of Bihar can expect much-needed relief from the sweltering heat as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted above-normal rainfall in June. The Meteorological Centre in Patna stated that early monsoon showers will not only provide respite from rising temperatures but also significantly benefit the state’s agricultural activities.
According to the IMD, Bihar is likely to witness more than average rainfall during the monsoon period from June to September. This is attributed to the formation of a low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal and the arrival of moist easterly winds, which are expected to enhance rainfall activity in the state, especially in the eastern regions.
Orange Alert for Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain
An orange alert has been issued for Kishanganj, Katihar, Bhagalpur, and Banka districts. These areas are expected to experience thunderstorms, lightning, and heavy rain accompanied by winds gusting at 30-40 km/h. The IMD has warned that these weather conditions could damage standing crops, particularly vegetables and fruit-bearing trees.
Elsewhere in the state, light to moderate rainfall is expected, bringing temporary relief to residents. Over the next 24 hours, Patna and its surrounding areas are likely to see partial cloud cover and light drizzle, though no major weather disruptions are forecast.
Rainfall and Temperature Updates
Rainfall over the last 24 hours was recorded in several districts including Siwan, Kishanganj, Nalanda, Madhubani, Purnia, Araria, Aurangabad, Bhagalpur, Sheikhpura, Vaishali, and Banka. The highest rainfall was reported from Raghunathpur in Siwan, which recorded 24.2 mm.
In Patna, sporadic showers were observed in Gaurichak and Sampatchak areas on Wednesday. However, the relief was short-lived as humidity levels spiked due to warm easterly winds. Patna’s maximum temperature rose by 2.6°C, reaching 37.3°C, while Gopalganj recorded the highest temperature in the state at 40.8°C.
Other cities also reported rising mercury levels: Gaya recorded a maximum of 36.5°C and minimum of 27.0°C, Bhagalpur saw 38.2°C and 27.6°C respectively, and Muzaffarpur recorded 36.4°C and 28.5°C.
Rainfall Figures from Key Locations (in mm):
- Chargharia (Kishanganj): 8.0
- Katrisarai (Nalanda): 6.2
- Pandaul (Madhubani): 4.6
- Rupauli (Purnia): 4.6
- Gayaji: 4.2
- Araria: 3.5
- Aurangabad: 3.5
- Birpur (Bhagalpur): 2.4
- Madhepura: 2.0
- Manpur (Gaya), Manihari (Katihar): 1.8
- Kishanganj (city): 1.0
- Dehri: 0.2
Agricultural and Water Level Impact
The IMD noted that favorable monsoon conditions could boost sowing activities and improve groundwater levels across Bihar. With a good start to the rainy season, farmers are optimistic about better yields this year.
