The weather in Bihar is expected to deteriorate significantly today as monsoon activity intensifies across the state. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for August 2, warning of widespread rain and thunderstorms in several districts. The alert particularly affects northern and eastern Bihar, where heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is likely.
According to the latest weather report, heavy to very heavy rain is expected in 11 districts, including Araria, Kishanganj, Bhagalpur, Samastipur, and Purnia. The IMD has warned that Araria and Kishanganj may experience extremely heavy rainfall, which could lead to localised flooding and waterlogging. Residents in these districts are advised to take necessary precautions and avoid travel unless essential.
Monsoon Activity at Peak in Bihar Today
The monsoon in Bihar has reached an intense phase, with forecasts predicting widespread rainfall across the state throughout the day. According to meteorological experts, monsoon clouds will remain active across most regions, especially in the Kosi and Seemanchal belt, which includes Purnia, Araria, and Kishanganj. These areas are expected to receive continuous rain with strong winds and lightning.
The weather department has indicated that not only will rainfall be heavy in certain areas, but lightning strikes are also a serious concern. There is a high risk of cloud-to-ground lightning in several parts of the state today, and people have been urged to remain indoors during thunderstorms and avoid taking shelter under trees or near electric poles.
Rainfall Warning Issued for Specific Districts
According to the regional meteorological center in Patna, Araria and Kishanganj have been placed under a red alert due to the forecast of extremely heavy rainfall. These areas may see severe waterlogging and possible disruptions in daily life. Purnia, Katihar, and Madhepura are also likely to receive very heavy rainfall, which may lead to traffic issues and water accumulation in low-lying areas.
Additionally, districts like Supaul, Samastipur, Begusarai, Bhagalpur, and Khagaria may experience heavy rainfall in isolated locations. Though not all areas are under the red alert category, the possibility of flooding in vulnerable zones remains high due to continued rain since the beginning of this week.
Statewide Impact of Weather Conditions
The impact of the ongoing monsoon activity is not limited to the northeastern parts of Bihar. Other regions of the state are also expected to witness light to moderate rainfall throughout the day. The IMD has maintained that while the intensity may vary across districts, the weather will remain generally unstable across the state.
Urban centers, including the capital Patna, are forecasted to receive intermittent rainfall with occasional thunderstorm activity. Though the city may escape the worst of the heavy downpour, localized waterlogging and traffic disruptions are still expected.
Orange Alert Extended Over the Weekend
The weather department has not limited the warning to Saturday alone. Forecasts for the next few days indicate that rainfall activity will continue into Sunday and Monday. On Sunday, Gopalganj and both East and West Champaran are likely to receive very heavy rainfall, while the Kosi-Seemanchal districts will continue to witness heavy showers.
Another orange alert has been issued for August 3, with a prediction of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and rain across Bihar. This pattern of weather activity suggests that monsoon conditions will remain active at least for the next four to five days, and citizens should remain cautious and stay updated on the latest advisories issued by the meteorological department.
August Likely to Bring Better Rainfall Than July
Despite the current weather disturbances, the IMD has provided some relief by forecasting normal rainfall levels for the month of August. The average normal rainfall for Bihar in August stands at around 271.9 millimeters, and current patterns suggest that the state may meet or exceed this target by the end of the month.
In contrast, July saw a significant rainfall deficit, with total precipitation falling short by 41 percent compared to seasonal averages. Lightning incidents were also widespread, recorded on almost every day of the month. August is therefore crucial for balancing out the rainfall deficiency that affected agricultural activities in July.
Temperature Outlook for August
While rainfall may offer some respite from the heat, the weather department has warned that temperatures in Bihar may remain above normal in many regions. Most cities are likely to experience maximum temperatures between 34 to 36 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is expected to stay around 26 to 28 degrees Celsius.
However, the southwestern parts of Bihar may see slightly cooler conditions, with maximum temperatures remaining below normal in some pockets. Nevertheless, the combination of humidity and heat will likely cause discomfort across the state, especially during non-rainy hours.
Impact on Agriculture and Daily Life
The ongoing monsoon revival is both a challenge and a blessing for the people of Bihar. For farmers, the heavy rain is essential to support paddy transplantation and other Kharif crop activities. After a dry July, many areas were struggling with delayed sowing. The current rainfall could improve soil moisture levels and accelerate planting.
At the same time, excessive rain may also damage low-lying fields, particularly in districts experiencing extremely heavy rainfall. Flash floods, soil erosion, and waterlogging are possible in vulnerable areas. Farmers have been advised to monitor local advisories and protect their standing crops wherever possible.
In urban areas, citizens are dealing with traffic congestion, power cuts, and delayed public transport due to persistent rainfall. The municipal authorities have been asked to remain alert and deploy pumps and clearing equipment in flood-prone localities. Schools in some districts have been instructed to function with caution or suspend classes if necessary due to safety concerns.
Safety Guidelines and Public Advisory
The IMD has requested the public to take necessary precautions during this period of unstable weather. In view of the lightning threat, people are advised to:
Avoid open areas and take shelter indoors during thunderstorms
Stay away from electric poles, trees, and water bodies during lightning activity
Keep mobile phones and electrical equipment unplugged when not in use during storm hours
Follow local administrative instructions regarding movement and shelter
Residents of Araria, Kishanganj, Purnia, and Bhagalpur should be especially vigilant due to the possibility of extreme weather. Emergency services and disaster management teams have been placed on standby in high-risk districts to respond to any untoward incidents.
Looking ahead, Bihar is expected to remain under the influence of an active monsoon system well into the first week of August. While this is favorable for the overall agricultural cycle, the IMD and local authorities are closely monitoring the situation to manage risks associated with excess rainfall, lightning, and flooding.
The people of Bihar are encouraged to stay connected to official weather bulletins, cooperate with district-level advisories, and remain indoors during periods of intense rain and lightning. The state government is also preparing relief and rescue teams in vulnerable districts as a preventive measure.
