Nepal Rains Trigger Flash Floods in Kishanganj; Bihar Braces for Monsoon Amidst Soaring Temperatures
Kishanganj/Patna: Continuous downpour following onset of monsoon in neighboring Nepal has led to flash floods- like conditions in Bihar’s border regions, with the Kanakayi, Budhi Kanakayi, and Mechi rivers in Kishanganj district. The Meteorological Forecasting Division under the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology of Nepal declared the onset of monsoon in Himalayan nation on Friday, 15 days ahead of the normal date.
The rising waters have caused panic, particularly in the Dighalbank and Tedhagachh block areas in Kishanganj district, where low-lying villages like Telibhitta, Bihartola, and Bhurlibhittha are now submerged. Farmers in the affected regions report that maize and vegetable crops worth lakhs of rupees have been completely destroyed by the sudden inundation. Villagers, facing significant losses, are now anticipating government compensation.
Heat Persists Across State, Monsoon on the Horizon
While Kishanganj battles floods, other parts of Bihar are grappling with varied weather patterns. Nine districts, including Gaya, recorded temperatures between 38 and 40 degrees Celsius on Friday. The prevalence of easterly winds is contributing to humid and oppressive heat across these areas. Although cloudy skies and potential late-evening rain are predicted for Patna, little significant relief is expected from the current conditions.
Above-Normal Monsoon Predicted
The India Meteorological Department has forecast rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds (30-40 km per hour) for many districts, including Patna, between June 1 and June 3. More significantly, the monsoon is expected to arrive in Bihar between June 13 and June 15.
According to the Patna Meteorological Center, Bihar is likely to experience above-normal rainfall this year. Against an average rainfall of 1024.3 mm, the state could witness up to 1137 mm of precipitation. Rainfall activities are anticipated to intensify from the first week of June, bringing much-needed relief from the heat but also posing challenges in flood-prone areas.
