Patna: Monsoon activity in Bihar continues to fluctuate, leaving residents grappling with high humidity and stifling heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has not issued any rainfall alert for any district in the state on Saturday, signaling another day of discomfort under a hot and restless atmosphere.
Despite overcast skies in several parts of South Bihar, including Patna, the absence of significant rainfall has made the weather more oppressive. “The humidity level remains above 75%, and the temperature in Patna is expected to touch 34–35°C,” said a Met official. “Minimum temperatures will also stay 2–3°C above normal, making nights unusually warm.”
No Major System Over Bihar Yet
While moisture-laden easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal are impacting the region, the IMD says no strong weather system—such as a trough line or low-pressure area—has formed in the central part of the state. As a result, rainfall has remained limited over the past few days.
However, a significant change could be on the horizon.
“A low-pressure area is likely to form in the Bay of Bengal from July 20, which may trigger widespread rain across many parts of Bihar,” stated the Meteorological Centre, Patna.
In the meantime, temperatures across the state are projected to rise by 1–3°C over the next 2–3 days. Minimum temperatures may also increase by up to 3°C, ensuring that the hot and humid spell continues both day and night.
Rainfall Snapshot: July 17
While no rainfall is expected on Saturday, the state witnessed decent showers earlier in the week. On July 17, Bihar recorded 9.8 mm of rainfall on average. Some districts saw substantial downpours:
- Sheikhpura: 92.4 mm
- Patna: 92.2 mm
- Nawada: 64.2 mm
- Nalanda: 50.6 mm
- Vaishali: 45.4 mm
In contrast, areas around the Kaimur hills saw such consistent rainfall that waterfalls in the region experienced near flood-like conditions.
42% Rainfall Deficit Raises Crop Concerns
According to IMD data, Bihar has recorded only 217.2 mm of rainfall this monsoon season, compared to the normal average of 317.9 mm—a worrying shortfall of 42%.
Experts warn that if the monsoon does not pick up pace within the next 10 to 15 days, Kharif crop sowing, especially paddy transplantation, could be severely impacted. “The third and fourth weeks of July are crucial for agricultural activity. A continued delay in rain can affect crop yield significantly,” said an agriculture department official.
Outlook
While Saturday offers no relief from the humid heat, all eyes are now on the Bay of Bengal, where the formation of a low-pressure system could revive monsoon activity. Until then, residents across Bihar will have to endure more sweaty days and steamy nights.
