Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for rain and thunderstorms across 19 districts of Bihar for the next 24 hours, warning of gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 50 km/h. The alert follows days of unsettled weather in various parts of the state.
According to the Patna Meteorological Centre, several districts, particularly in North Bihar, will continue to witness rainfall, thunderstorms, and overcast skies till May 24. However, a rise in temperature by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius is expected from May 25 onwards, with the return of hot and dry conditions.
Pre-Monsoon Showers Bring Temporary Relief
Over the past few days, more than eight districts experienced moderate to heavy rainfall, offering brief respite from the heat. However, two fatalities were reported in Purnia and Araria districts due to lightning strikes. In the capital city, Patna, light rainfall and cloudy skies brought mild relief to residents on Wednesday.
“The next two days will see increased rain activity, especially in North Bihar. From Saturday, the heat will make a comeback, and many districts could see the mercury rise above 40°C again,” said an official from the Patna Meteorological Centre.
Rohtas recorded the highest temperature at 39.4°C, followed closely by Gaya at 39.3°C, while Patna reported 35.2°C with light showers.
Darkness at Noon: Unusual Weather Grips Cities
In a dramatic turn of events, cities like Bettiah, Bagaha, Motihari, Raxaul, and Darbhanga experienced darkness during daytime hours on Wednesday due to dense cloud cover. Residents had to switch on headlights to navigate city roads. Rain and gusty winds also lashed Madhubani, Aurangabad, and Araria, further cooling the atmosphere.
Monsoon May Arrive Early in Bihar
The IMD has hinted at an early monsoon onset in Bihar, between June 13 and 15, slightly ahead of the usual timeline. This year, the southwest monsoon is expected to reach Kerala by May 27, four days ahead of schedule.
“There is a strong possibility that monsoon will enter Bihar earlier than last year via Purnia and Kishanganj. In 2024, monsoon had arrived on June 20, and this year’s pre-monsoon activity indicates a faster progression,” said a senior IMD scientist.
In 2024, Bihar recorded 20% below-average rainfall during the monsoon season, with a total of 798.3 mm against a normal of 992.2 mm.
Why Is Bihar Receiving Pre-Monsoon Rains?
Several meteorological factors are contributing to the persistent rainfall across the state:
- Cyclonic circulation over North and East Bihar is pulling moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal.
- A weak western disturbance is destabilizing local weather patterns, causing intermittent rainfall and thunderstorms.
- Eastern moist winds are increasing humidity levels (60–80%), ideal for cloud formation and rain.
- Local heat and moisture build-up are triggering atmospheric instability.
IMD Issues Public Advisory
The Meteorological Department has urged residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid open spaces, trees, and electric poles. Farmers and outdoor workers have been especially advised to take precautions.
