Patna: The ongoing spell of heavy rainfall affecting northeastern states has now extended its impact to Bihar, resulting in widespread rain, thunderstorms, and casualties due to lightning strikes. Over the last two days, the state has witnessed turbulent weather, with wind speeds reaching 50 to 60 km/h.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for 17 districts, including Purnia, Kishanganj, and Katihar, warning of heavy rainfall and lightning. Another yellow alert has been sounded for 20 districts including Patna, forecasting thunderstorms and strong winds. The ongoing weather conditions are also expected to cause a 2–3 degree drop in maximum temperature.
Deaths Reported Due to Lightning
The severe weather turned deadly in Supaul district, where two people died due to lightning on Tuesday. These are among the seven deaths reported in the last 48 hours across the state. Earlier, lightning strikes claimed two lives in Araria and three in Madhepura. In addition, a woman in Madhepura died after a tree fell on her during the storm.
Urban Flooding and Property Damage
In Araria, continuous downpour over the past 24 hours led to knee-deep water flooding various localities. Water from clogged roads and drains entered homes in Ashram Mohalla, Marwari Patti Bus Stand area, and near the SDPO office.
Supaul also experienced heavy rainfall accompanied by a storm, causing trees to fall at several locations. Lightning activity continued to be intense.
Temperature Extremes and Heat in Rohtas
Despite the widespread rain, Rohtas remained the hottest district in the last 24 hours, with the mercury touching 41°C. Gaya Ji recorded 39.8°C, and Patna experienced 36.7°C, with humid conditions causing discomfort despite cloud cover in the morning.
Weather Forecast and Alerts
According to IMD, no significant change in temperature is expected for the next five days. The department has issued location-specific alerts:
- May 22: Light to moderate rainfall expected in Supaul, Araria, Madhepura, Saharsa, and Kishanganj.
- May 23: Rainfall warnings extend to Bhagalpur, Banka, Jamui, Munger, and Khagaria.
IMD Issues Precautionary Advisory
The Meteorological Department stated that a cyclonic circulation is active over North and East Bihar, and its impact will persist across the region for at least the next two days. The IMD has appealed to residents to stay indoors during inclement weather, avoid open fields, and steer clear of trees and electric poles.
Farmers have been specifically advised to exercise caution while working in the fields and to avoid using metal objects like mobile phones, tractors, or pump sets during lightning.
Disaster Management on Alert
Local administrations and disaster response teams have been asked to remain on high alert. People are urged to follow official advisories and monitor updates through the IMD website and social media.
Early Monsoon Onset Expected
In a significant development, the Southwest Monsoon is expected to arrive in Kerala on May 27, four days ahead of the usual date of June 1. If this prediction holds true, it will be the earliest onset in 16 years—since 2009, when the monsoon arrived on May 23. Last year, it made landfall on May 30.
As per IMD data, the monsoon typically reaches other states by July 8 and begins to withdraw via Rajasthan around September 17, completing its exit by October 15.
