The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the monsoon will intensify in Bihar over the next two to three days. Weather experts in Patna have indicated that between August 22 and 26, widespread heavy rainfall is expected in most districts of the state, including the capital. The forecast warns of thunderstorms, strong winds, and lightning along with heavy showers.
IMD Issues Heavy Rainfall Warning for Patna and 15 Districts
The Patna Meteorological Centre has issued a rainfall alert covering Patna and 15 other districts. These include Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Kaimur, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Nalanda, Munger, Begusarai, and Khagaria. According to the forecast, one or two locations in these districts are likely to receive heavy rainfall.
In addition, an orange alert has been declared for Gaya, Nawada, Vaishali, Samastipur, and West Champaran districts. At isolated places in these districts, very heavy rainfall may occur during this period. The warning also highlights the risk of intense lightning strikes and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30 to 40 kilometers per hour.
Rainfall Recorded in Past 24 Hours Across Bihar
Over the past 24 hours, several regions of Bihar have experienced rainfall. In the state capital, 37.1 millimeters of rainfall was recorded. The Rajnagar region in Madhubani district reported the highest rainfall at 75 millimeters.
Heavy downpours were also reported in Katihar, Siwan, and Buxar, leading to normal monsoon activity across the state. The IMD confirmed that thundercloud activity was widespread, with intermittent spells of showers bringing relief to some areas but also causing waterlogging.
Rainfall Distribution in Key Towns and Districts
The recent rain data shows varied distribution across districts. In Patna’s Phulwarisharif region, 44.6 millimeters of rainfall was recorded. Fatuha received 37.2 millimeters, while Danapur registered 27.6 millimeters. Masaurhi and Khusrupur both recorded 25.6 millimeters each.
In Supaul district, Birpur witnessed 61 millimeters of rain, and Forbesganj received 55.4 millimeters. Jehanabad recorded 52.2 millimeters, while Manihari in Katihar received 51 millimeters. Narpatganj in Araria reported 50.4 millimeters. Sampatchak near Patna recorded 40.2 millimeters. Darbhanga had 36.4 millimeters of rain, and Kako in Jehanabad received 34.8 millimeters. Parbatganj in Supaul registered 30.2 millimeters, while Pandoul in Madhubani saw 28.4 millimeters. Raghopur in Supaul recorded 28 millimeters.
Weather Conditions in Patna and Surrounding Areas
Patna city witnessed cloudy skies with occasional sunshine. Humid conditions troubled residents, as temperatures remained high despite rainfall. On Thursday, the maximum temperature in Patna was 34 degrees Celsius, while Valmiki Nagar recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 35 degrees Celsius.
The heat combined with humidity created uncomfortable conditions for people in the capital and nearby areas. The IMD stated that cloudy weather will persist, with rainfall likely to bring some relief over the coming days.
Temperature Report from Major Cities of Bihar
The maximum temperature in Patna was 34 degrees Celsius, with a minimum of 27.1 degrees Celsius. In Gaya, the maximum temperature stood at 33.4 degrees Celsius, while the minimum was 26.4 degrees Celsius.
Bhagalpur recorded a maximum temperature of 31.9 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 27.5 degrees Celsius. Muzaffarpur reported a maximum temperature of 33 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 27.6 degrees Celsius. These readings indicate that despite rainfall, the heat and humidity remain persistent in the state.
Lightning and Strong Wind Warning Issued
The IMD has specifically cautioned residents about thunderstorms accompanied by lightning strikes in several districts. Winds at speeds of 30 to 40 kilometers per hour are likely during heavy showers. Authorities have urged people to remain alert, avoid open fields during thunderstorms, and stay indoors as much as possible.
Lightning-related incidents are a recurring danger during the monsoon season in Bihar. In recent years, lightning has caused several fatalities in the state. This makes the latest warning significant, urging residents to take precautionary measures.
IMD Forecast: Heavy Rainfall Between August 22 and 26
The weather office predicts that between August 22 and August 26, heavy rainfall will cover large parts of Bihar. This includes north Bihar districts, which are often vulnerable to flooding during the monsoon season. Rivers such as the Gandak, Bagmati, and Kosi may see rising water levels if rainfall continues at this pace.
Patna, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and other central districts are also expected to experience frequent showers. The weather experts warn that intense spells of rain may disrupt daily life, causing traffic issues, power outages, and waterlogging in urban areas.
Impact of Rainfall on Daily Life in Bihar
Rainfall in the past 24 hours has already disrupted normal life in parts of Patna and surrounding districts. Waterlogging was reported in low-lying areas, and traffic movement was affected due to heavy showers. In rural regions, farmers have welcomed the rainfall, as it will help in paddy cultivation, which depends heavily on monsoon showers.
However, the risk of lightning strikes and strong winds remains a concern for both urban and rural populations. Schools and colleges have been advised to monitor weather updates closely, and farmers have been urged to avoid working in open fields during thunderstorms.
Relief from Heat but Humidity Persists
While rainfall has provided relief from scorching heat in many areas, humidity continues to trouble residents. The IMD has noted that conditions may remain uncomfortable in Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur, and Muzaffarpur until widespread rainfall occurs.
The department has also highlighted that maximum temperatures in most districts are still hovering above 31 degrees Celsius. Combined with high moisture levels, this has created muggy conditions across the state.
Authorities on High Alert for Flood-Prone Areas
Officials in flood-prone districts have been instructed to remain alert. Rivers in north Bihar are being closely monitored, as heavy rainfall in catchment areas could increase water flow. District administrations have been directed to prepare for possible emergencies, including evacuation measures if rivers cross danger levels.
The IMD forecast indicates that Bihar will experience an active monsoon phase over the next few days. With alerts issued for Patna and 15 districts, residents must stay cautious and follow safety guidelines. Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning are expected between August 22 and August 26.
The weather pattern is likely to affect both urban and rural life. While farmers will benefit from good rainfall, city residents may face waterlogging and traffic disruptions. The IMD has advised people to remain indoors during thunderstorms and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy showers.
