Patna: The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for heavy rain in six districts of Bihar, including Siwan, on Monday (August 5), while placing 32 other districts — including the capital Patna — under a yellow alert. The warning also includes the possibility of strong winds blowing at 30–40 km/h and dangerous lightning strikes across the state.
According to the latest bulletin, inclement weather is expected to persist across most parts of Bihar over the next 24 hours, with conditions likely to improve only after August 6.
Five Killed by Lightning in 24 Hours
The weather-related risks are already proving deadly. In the last 24 hours, at least five people have died due to lightning strikes across the state:
- In Samastipur, a girl and one other person lost their lives.
- In Aurangabad, two girl students on their way to coaching classes were killed.
- In Banka, a shepherd was struck by lightning.
- In Jamui, a sanitation worker also succumbed to lightning injuries.
Authorities have urged people to remain indoors during lightning warnings and avoid open fields, water bodies, and metal structures.
Record-Breaking Rainfall in Purnia
Purnia experienced torrential rain that shattered a five-year record. Between 4 pm and 6 pm on August 3, the city recorded 115 mm of rainfall, causing widespread waterlogging across both urban and rural areas. Key city spots including Patanjali Mega Store, Shastrinagar, and Bhatta Bazaar on Taxi Stand Road were submerged, with water entering homes and shops.
This downpour is now among the heaviest two-hour rain events in recent history — nearly matching the 117 mm recorded in 2020.
Flood-Like Situation in Several Districts
The situation is equally grim in other parts of Bihar:
- Patna witnessed heavy rain across several areas including Patna Junction, Pataliputra Railway Station, and Gandhi Maidan, where 2 to 3 feet of water has accumulated on roads.
- In Buxar, tributaries of the Ganga are overflowing. In Banarpur village, floodwaters have entered residential areas. Boats are being used to navigate flooded streets, and residents are reportedly cooking meals on rooftops due to three feet of water inside homes.
- Munger, Banka, and Bhagalpur are also facing flood-like conditions, with roads submerged and low-lying areas inundated.
Statewide Alert and Precautions
The Bihar government has placed disaster response teams on standby and urged citizens to stay updated through official weather advisories. Emergency helplines have been activated in vulnerable districts.
A special advisory has also been issued regarding lightning risk, with the Meteorological Department asking schools and colleges to remain cautious about outdoor activities.
Next 24 Hours Critical
With more rain expected, particularly in the flood-prone northern and eastern parts of the state, the next 24 hours remain critical. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has advised residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
Relief and rescue operations are being closely monitored, and district administrations have been asked to remain on high alert to respond swiftly to emergencies.
