Heatwave Grips Bihar: Yellow Alert Issued for 24 Districts, Rain Forecast in Northeastern Regions

Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for heatwave conditions in 24 districts of Bihar, including Patna, on Friday. The maximum temperature in these districts is likely to rise by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius, with some areas expected to reach highs of 42 to 44°C, officials said.

Simultaneously, 14 districts in the northeastern and border regions of the state may experience light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms. Wind speeds in these areas could reach 50 to 60 kmph, adding to the weather fluctuations seen in recent days.

Soaring Temperatures Across the State

In the last 24 hours, Rohtas recorded the highest temperature at 43.6°C, followed by Gaya at 43.1°C. Six districts, including Sheikhpura (41.6°C) and Patna (40.5°C), also saw temperatures exceed the 40-degree mark. There was no rainfall reported anywhere in the state on Thursday, intensifying the impact of the sweltering heat.

Rain and Thunderstorm Forecast for May 17-18

According to IMD forecasts, rain and thunderstorm activity is expected across Bihar on May 17 and 18, bringing temporary relief from the intense heat.

• On May 17, an orange alert has been issued for West Champaran, East Champaran, Sitamarhi, Shivhar, Madhubani, Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Purnia, Katihar, Bhagalpur, and Banka, where winds of 50-60 kmph are expected along with rain and lightning.
• A yellow alert has also been issued for Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Vaishali, Samastipur, Saharsa, Madhepura, Khagaria, Munger, and Jamui, with wind speeds ranging from 30-40 kmph.
• On May 18, similar conditions will persist, with orange alerts continuing in the 12 most-affected districts, while yellow alerts remain in place for the others.

Experts Warn of Unrelenting Night Heat

Meteorological experts have warned that night temperatures are also remaining high, offering little relief after sunset.

Ashish Kumar, a scientist at the Patna Meteorological Centre, explained:

“An anti-cyclonic circulation over Central India and Odisha is influencing Bihar’s weather. This system is driving hot and dry westerly winds, which are not only raising daytime temperatures but also making nights uncomfortably warm.”

The IMD has advised residents to take necessary precautions, stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, and follow local weather advisories to stay safe during this extreme weather phase.