The monsoon has once again gained momentum in Bihar just before Navratri. The Meteorological Department in Patna has issued a yellow alert for several districts, warning residents about heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. The alert has created concern as rivers across the state are witnessing a rise in water levels due to continuous downpours.
Heavy Rainfall Recorded in Multiple Districts
In the last 24 hours, several districts including Sheohar, Siwan, Nalanda, Bettiah, Raxaul, Samastipur, and Gopalganj recorded heavy rain. The showers caused flooding in low-lying areas and created traffic disruptions in many towns. The weather department has reported that water levels in rivers have increased significantly, raising the risk of flooding in certain regions. People living in flood-prone villages are being advised to stay alert.
Warning Extended to Southern and Eastern Bihar
The Patna Meteorological Center has also warned that Jamui, Munger, Banka, Bhagalpur, Madhubani, Supaul, Araria, Purnia, Katihar, and Khagaria may experience heavy rainfall in the coming days. Light to moderate showers are also expected in districts such as Patna, Bhabhua, and Lakhisarai. With such predictions, authorities are preparing for possible emergencies and advising people to avoid unnecessary travel during intense rainfall.
Thunderstorm and Lightning Alert Across the State
The weather department has cautioned that thunderstorms and lightning strikes are likely across Bihar. A yellow alert has been issued statewide, urging residents to take precautions. Such conditions are expected to persist for the next two days, bringing additional challenges for farmers, commuters, and people living in rural areas. The department has asked residents to avoid open fields and seek shelter during lightning activity.
Drop in Temperature Recorded
Due to the continuous rainfall, both maximum and minimum temperatures in the state are expected to drop by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius. Meteorologists have explained that this fall in temperature is a direct result of moisture entering the atmosphere from the Bay of Bengal. The cooler weather may bring relief from the heat but could also create health risks if precautions are not taken.
Bay of Bengal System Revives Monsoon Activity
Weather experts have confirmed that a low-pressure system has formed over the Bay of Bengal. This system has strengthened in recent days, allowing moisture to spread across the eastern region of India. As a result, monsoon activity has revived in Bihar and is expected to continue until September 20. The presence of such a system has often caused widespread rain in the past, and this time conditions appear similar.
Impact on Agriculture and Farmers
The recent rains are a mixed blessing for farmers in Bihar. On one hand, sufficient rainfall supports paddy cultivation and benefits standing crops. On the other hand, excessive downpours could damage fields, delay harvesting, and harm crops in waterlogged areas. Farmers in districts like Nalanda, Siwan, and Samastipur have reported challenges in managing excess water in their fields. The agriculture department has advised farmers to monitor their crops carefully and take measures to drain water when possible.
Rivers Witness Rising Water Levels
The Ganga, Kosi, and Gandak rivers have all shown a visible rise in water levels. Smaller rivers like Bagmati and Kamla Balan are also swelling due to continuous rain. Flood control authorities are monitoring the situation closely, especially in northern Bihar where flooding is a recurring problem. Embankments are being inspected, and disaster response teams have been put on alert in sensitive districts.
Urban Areas Facing Waterlogging Problems
In Patna, Muzaffarpur, and Bhagalpur, heavy rains have already caused waterlogging in residential and commercial zones. Many roads are submerged, disrupting normal traffic and forcing people to stay indoors. Local bodies are struggling with drainage issues as pumps are working round the clock to clear accumulated water. For residents, commuting has become difficult, and schools in some districts have been asked to remain closed for safety reasons.
Health Risks Linked With Weather Change
The change in weather has also increased the risk of seasonal illnesses. Doctors have warned about rising cases of viral fever, cold, and respiratory problems. Stagnant water from rain can also become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, leading to an increase in dengue and malaria cases. Health officials have advised citizens to maintain hygiene, consume clean drinking water, and seek immediate medical help in case of fever or persistent cough.
Government Preparedness and Response
District administrations across Bihar are on alert. Relief teams have been asked to remain ready for evacuation if required. Authorities are coordinating with the Disaster Management Department to supply food and medical kits to affected areas. Local officials have also been instructed to repair damaged roads quickly and ensure electricity supply is restored after power cuts caused by heavy rain and storms.
Schools and Institutions Asked to Stay Cautious
The Education Department has recommended schools in affected districts to either shift to online classes or suspend physical sessions if heavy rainfall continues. Safety guidelines have been issued for students, advising them to avoid playing outdoors during thunderstorms. Colleges and coaching centers have also been asked to follow weather updates and plan accordingly.
Transportation and Train Services Disrupted
Railways and road transport services have been affected by the continuous rainfall. Waterlogging on tracks and highways has delayed train and bus schedules. The East Central Railway has asked passengers to check train status before traveling. Drivers have been cautioned to avoid flooded roads, and traffic police have increased deployment in major cities to manage jams caused by waterlogged streets.
Bihar’s Vulnerability to Monsoon Floods
Every year, Bihar faces major challenges during the monsoon season due to its geography. Several districts are located in flood plains, making them highly vulnerable to swollen rivers. Experts believe that better flood management and early warning systems are essential for reducing damage. While embankments and relief measures help, long-term planning is required to protect lives and property from recurring floods.
Meteorological Forecast for Coming Days
According to the Patna Meteorological Department, light to heavy rainfall will continue in several districts until September 20. Winds are expected to blow at moderate speed, adding to the chances of thunderstorms. The weather department has advised fishermen to avoid venturing into rivers during this period. Residents have been urged to stay updated with official forecasts and follow safety advisories.
Appeal to Citizens for Precaution
Authorities have appealed to citizens to remain alert during this weather phase. People are advised to stay indoors during heavy downpours, avoid contact with electrical poles in waterlogged areas, and keep emergency kits ready. Farmers have been encouraged to use weather apps for real-time updates and protect their fields accordingly. In rural areas, village heads have been asked to keep local communication channels active for faster response in case of emergencies.
Historical Context of Rainfall in Bihar
Bihar has always been dependent on the monsoon for its agricultural economy. However, the state also faces one of the highest risks of flood disasters in India. Data shows that almost 68 percent of Bihar’s geographical area is flood-prone. Over the past decade, repeated monsoon floods have displaced thousands of families and caused heavy agricultural losses. Experts believe climate change is making rainfall more erratic, leading to unpredictable weather conditions in the region.
Climate Change and Its Role in Bihar’s Rainfall
Climate experts argue that global warming has intensified rainfall patterns. Sudden bursts of heavy rain are now more common, and Bihar has been experiencing such irregularities. Scientists link the recent rainfall activity to increased sea surface temperatures in the Bay of Bengal. These conditions create stronger low-pressure systems, which in turn bring more rain to eastern India. Understanding these patterns is crucial for future disaster management in the state.
Local Voices and Experiences
Residents of Nalanda and Bhagalpur have shared their experiences of the recent rain. Many families complained about water entering their houses and disrupting daily routines. Farmers in Samastipur said their standing paddy crop is at risk of rotting if rainfall continues. Shopkeepers in Patna reported fewer customers due to continuous showers, impacting their earnings. These local accounts highlight how widespread rainfall impacts both urban and rural life in Bihar.
As Bihar faces the brunt of the monsoon once again, authorities and citizens remain cautious. The yellow alert issued by the weather department serves as a reminder of the challenges brought by heavy rain, rising river levels, and thunderstorms. Preparedness, timely communication, and public awareness will play key roles in reducing risks over the coming days. The situation is being monitored closely, and updates will continue as conditions develop across the state.
