KKN Gurugram Desk | The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather alert for several districts of Bihar, including the capital Patna. A forecast of thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds between 40 to 60 km/h has been made for Wednesday. Cloudy skies and the possibility of intermittent rain are expected to dominate the region’s weather, bringing temporary relief from the prevailing heat.

Patna Braces for Rain and Lightning

Patna, the capital city of Bihar, is expected to experience cloudy conditions throughout the day, with a strong possibility of rain showers accompanied by lightning. On Tuesday, the city already saw dense cloud cover, which led to a noticeable drop in the maximum temperature.

According to the IMD report, the capital recorded a maximum temperature of 35.7°C, down by 4.1°C from the previous day, while the minimum temperature dipped slightly to 28.4°C, a marginal fall of 0.3°C. The decrease in daytime temperatures brought much-needed relief to residents after days of oppressive heat.

Thunderstorm and Strong Wind Alert Across Bihar

A red alert for thunderstorms and strong winds has been issued for multiple districts across eastern and northern Bihar. The IMD predicts wind speeds ranging from 40 to 60 km/h, which may cause disruptions in daily life, particularly in transportation and power services.

Districts under the warning include:

• Eastern Bihar

• Northwestern and North-Central Bihar

• Kaimur

• Rohtas

• Aurangabad

• Gaya

• Nawada

In these areas, people are advised to take shelter during severe weather and avoid standing under trees or near metal structures during lightning events.

Rainfall Brings Temporary Relief From Heat

Tuesday’s cloud cover brought down the maximum temperatures across many parts of Bihar. While the maximum temperature saw a downward trend, the minimum temperatures increased slightly in some areas, indicating humid nights and possible pre-monsoon activity.

Such weather conditions are typical during the transition period between summer and the arrival of the southwest monsoon. Though the full onset of the monsoon is yet to arrive, these thunderstorms and pre-monsoon showers signal the changing seasonal dynamics.

District-wise Weather Conditions

1. Patna: Cloudy skies, high humidity, and moderate to strong winds expected. Rain likely during afternoon or evening hours.

2. Gaya and Nawada: Potential thunderstorm activity. Lightning risk remains high. Wind speeds may reach up to 60 km/h.

3. Rohtas and Aurangabad: Gusty winds, low visibility during storms. Local administration has been advised to remain alert.

4. Kaimur: Sudden changes in temperature and weather patterns expected. Flash showers may impact outdoor activities.

Public Advisory by IMD

The IMD has issued safety advisories and urged citizens to remain indoors during lightning or strong winds. Specific precautions include:

• Avoid open fields and water bodies

• Stay away from electric poles and wires

• Secure loose objects on rooftops

• Use weather apps or local news updates for real-time alerts

Emergency services have also been put on high alert in vulnerable districts. The state disaster management authority has directed local officials to remain prepared for any untoward weather incidents.

Recent Weather Trends in Bihar

Over the past week, Bihar has seen an increasing trend of cloud build-up and isolated rainfall in several districts. The rising humidity levels coupled with the presence of cumulonimbus clouds are clear signs of upcoming monsoon activity. However, experts suggest that these pre-monsoon disturbances can be erratic and often bring both relief and risk.

Monsoon Outlook for Bihar in 2025

The 2025 monsoon is expected to arrive on time, as per early projections. While June is likely to witness scattered rains and thunderstorms, widespread rainfall is forecast in July and August, crucial for agriculture in the state. Farmers and rural communities are particularly hopeful for a normal monsoon season, given the dependence on rain-fed farming in large parts of Bihar.

Impact on Agriculture and Daily Life

Short-term rains and windstorms often bring mixed outcomes. While light rain can rejuvenate parched fields, sudden downpours and lightning can cause crop damage or delays in sowing. Livestock and rural workers are particularly vulnerable to lightning strikes during outdoor activities.

City dwellers, on the other hand, may experience:

• Traffic disruptions

• Power outages due to fallen trees or wires

• Delays in rail and air travel

• Waterlogging in low-lying areas

Precautionary Measures Suggested

Authorities have encouraged the public to stay updated and take necessary precautions, particularly between 12 PM and 8 PM, when thunderstorm activity tends to peak. Schools and workplaces may issue early closures or shift to remote operations in severely affected districts.

Weather monitoring cells have been established at the district level to track wind speed, lightning strikes, and rainfall intensity.

Emergency Contact Numbers Shared

For any emergency assistance related to weather events, citizens can contact:

• State Disaster Response Force (SDRF): 1078

• Local Weather Helpline: 1800-180-1717

• Electricity Board Emergency: 1912

• Fire Services: 101

Lightning: The Silent Killer in Rural Bihar

Lightning remains one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities in Bihar. Every year, dozens of lives are lost, mostly in rural areas where people work in open fields without protective infrastructure. The government has rolled out several awareness campaigns, yet more ground-level outreach is needed to reduce these preventable deaths.

The weather in Bihar is shifting rapidly as the state edges closer to the monsoon season. While the temporary relief from summer heat is welcomed, the associated risks of thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds cannot be ignored. Authorities and citizens must work together to ensure that precautionary measures are followed, especially in vulnerable districts.