Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall in 11 districts of Bihar on Wednesday, with several parts of the state expected to witness thunderstorms, strong winds and intense spells of rain.
The districts under the orange alert are East Champaran, West Champaran, Siwan, Saran, Gopalganj, Buxar, Bhojpur, Kaimur, Arwal, Rohtas and Aurangabad.
The IMD has also warned of winds reaching speeds of up to 50 kmph during thunderstorms. Patna and several other districts are expected to remain cloudy, with light to moderate rainfall likely at some places.
The weather department has attributed the increased rainfall activity to a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, which is influencing weather conditions across several parts of eastern India. Its impact is expected to become more pronounced in Bihar over the next 24 hours.
Heavy rain expected over the next few days
According to the forecast, rainfall activity is expected to increase across Bihar from August 20. Several districts may receive light to moderate rain, with heavy rainfall at isolated locations.
The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall in Bihar between August 20 and 25, while August 22 and 23 could see very heavy rainfall at some places.
On August 20, heavy rain is likely in parts of south Bihar, including Patna, Nalanda, Gaya, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Kaimur, Ara and Buxar. A warning has also been issued for thunderstorms and lightning in several districts.
On August 21, rain and thunderstorms are expected to continue, although there is no heavy-rain alert for the state comparable to the warnings issued for the preceding days.
Six districts received rain in the past 24 hours
Several parts of Bihar received rainfall during the past 24 hours, including Patna and Gaya. The capital remained cloudy throughout the day, while some areas received heavy showers, leading to waterlogging in several localities.
Gaya recorded the highest rainfall at 122 mm, followed by Aurangabad at 70.4 mm, Patna at 64 mm and Bhojpur at 61 mm.
The rainfall brought relief from humid conditions, although waterlogging and other rain-related problems were reported in some areas.
In Bagaha, erosion along the Gandak River reportedly led to a school building being swept into the river, highlighting the impact of rising water levels and riverbank erosion in parts of the state.
Bihar rainfall deficit remains a concern
Despite the recent spells of rain, Bihar has received significantly less rainfall than normal during the ongoing monsoon season. The state has so far recorded around 40% less rainfall than the average, according to the available weather assessment.
With monsoon activity expected to intensify over the coming days, the rainfall deficit could reduce to some extent.
The IMD has advised residents to remain alert during thunderstorms and lightning, particularly in districts under weather warnings.
