Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for light rainfall and gusty winds in 16 districts of Bihar on Saturday as the southwest monsoon remains active across the state. Winds of up to 40 kmph are also likely to accompany the rain in the affected districts.
According to the Meteorological Centre, while parts of the state are expected to receive light showers, weather conditions in the remaining districts will remain largely normal, with a mix of sunshine and cloud cover. The IMD has forecast pleasant weather conditions across Bihar until August 7.
During the past 24 hours, rainfall was recorded in several districts, including Patna, Bettiah, Nalanda, Raxaul and Sasaram. However, despite the recent showers, Bihar continues to face a significant rainfall deficit, with the state recording 42% below-normal rainfall so far this monsoon season.
Monsoon Remains Active Despite Rainfall Deficit
Weather experts said the monsoon system over Bihar has not weakened completely. High moisture levels in the atmosphere continue to trigger localised cloud formation, leading to scattered rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds in different parts of the state on a daily basis.
The prevailing weather pattern is expected to continue over the next few days, with isolated rain and thunderstorm activity across various districts.
Patna Likely to Witness Cloudy Skies, Light Rain
In the state capital, Patna, the sky is expected to remain cloudy on Saturday, with light rain likely in some areas. The showers may provide temporary relief from humid conditions.
The maximum temperature is expected to remain between 33°C and 34°C, while the minimum temperature is likely to hover around 28°C. Although humidity will persist, intermittent rainfall is expected to ease the discomfort.
Bihar Records 42% Below-Normal Rainfall
The first half of the monsoon season has remained largely dry in Bihar. Along with the overall rainfall deficit of 42%, the distribution of rainfall has also been highly uneven.
During the last 24 hours, 34 of Bihar’s 38 districts recorded below-normal rainfall. Among them, 20 districts fell under the category of severe rainfall deficiency, while 14 districts recorded deficient rainfall.
Only Begusarai recorded near-normal rainfall, while Kishanganj, Lakhisarai and Khagaria received above-normal rainfall during the period.
Rainfall Highlights
According to official data:
- Khagaria recorded 18 mm of rainfall, which was 82% above normal.
- Kishanganj recorded 35% above-normal rainfall, while Lakhisarai received 51% above normal.
- Begusarai recorded rainfall close to normal, with a 7% deficit.
Several districts continued to experience drought-like conditions due to extremely low rainfall:
- Sheohar: 96% below normal
- Nawada and Saharsa: 93% below normal
- Kaimur: 91% below normal
- Aurangabad: 90% below normal
- Siwan: 88% below normal
- Nalanda: 87% below normal
- Gaya: 86% below normal
- Sitamarhi: 85% below normal
Patna district recorded 4 mm of rainfall, which was 41% below the normal level for the period.
The IMD has advised residents in districts under the yellow alert to remain cautious during thunderstorms and gusty winds while keeping track of the latest weather updates.
