The monsoon remains active in Bihar, but a new shift in the weather is expected soon. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Patna, alerts have been issued for multiple districts in the state due to possible adverse conditions. The department has issued an orange alert for 18 districts, while a yellow alert has been placed for 21 others.

These alerts have been released as a precaution against likely thunderstorms, lightning, rain, and gusty winds. The alerts come at a time when rainfall in Bihar is still significantly below normal levels, and concerns about seasonal monsoon activity continue to grow.

Orange Alert Issued for 18 Districts

As per the official update from the Patna Meteorological Centre, 18 districts in Bihar are now under an orange alert. These include East Champaran, Muzaffarpur, Patna, Saran, Samastipur, Aurangabad, Nalanda, Sheikhpura, Siwan, Vaishali, Jehanabad, Jamui, Banka, Bhojpur, Arwal, Gaya, and Nawada.

In these districts, the IMD has predicted thunderstorms with lightning, accompanied by moderate to heavy rainfall. Wind speeds are expected to reach 30 to 40 kilometers per hour. The IMD advisory urges residents to remain indoors during severe weather hours and avoid open areas.

The orange alert indicates that the weather conditions in these areas may cause damage or disruption. The warning includes risks to standing crops, travel delays, and damage to temporary structures. The advisory also suggests that local administrations remain on alert and take necessary preventive actions.

Yellow Alert in 21 Other Districts

In addition to the orange alert, the weather department has also issued a yellow alert in 21 districts. These include Gopalganj, East Champaran, Samastipur, Patna, Bhojpur, Buxar, Kaimur, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Arwal, Gaya, Nawada, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai, Munger, Begusarai, Banka, Jamui, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, and Vaishali.

In these areas, thunderstorms are expected along with lightning and isolated rain showers. Gusty winds with speeds between 30 and 40 kilometers per hour may occur. The IMD has asked residents to stay alert and take safety measures, especially during outdoor activities.

A yellow alert usually signals the possibility of moderate weather disturbances. It serves as an early warning to prevent casualties and infrastructural losses due to unpredictable climatic behavior. Authorities in these districts are advised to monitor updates from the local meteorological office closely.

Thunderstorms and Lightning Risk Across the State

The forecast from the IMD points to increased thunderstorm activity in both orange and yellow alert zones. Thunderstorms often occur during active monsoon phases, and they bring lightning risks, especially in rural and agricultural areas. The advisory warns people to avoid sheltering under trees and to stay away from open fields.

The wind speed, although not cyclonic, can still uproot temporary shelters, damage electric poles, and disrupt normal life. People have been urged not to ignore the alert and to follow local administration instructions during the warning period.

Schools and public offices in some districts may face temporary shutdowns if the conditions worsen. Transportation, especially on rural roads, might also be affected due to waterlogging or reduced visibility caused by rain and storm activity.

Rainfall Deficit Still a Concern in Bihar

Despite the recent weather warnings, Bihar continues to face a rainfall deficit in this monsoon season. According to the latest data, the state has received only 304.9 mm of rainfall so far. This is nearly 40 percent less than the normal seasonal average expected by this time of the year.

The low rainfall is raising concerns among farmers who rely heavily on monsoon rains for crop sowing and irrigation. The agriculture sector, already under pressure due to erratic weather patterns in past years, is once again facing uncertainty.

In many parts of Bihar, paddy transplantation and other kharif crop activities have been delayed. If the rainfall does not improve soon, the state could see a decline in agricultural yield. The IMD and state government are closely monitoring the situation to plan any emergency interventions if required.

Why the Alerts Matter for Public Safety

The IMD’s orange and yellow alerts are important markers for disaster preparedness. An orange alert indicates that authorities need to stay ready for moderate to severe weather events. A yellow alert acts as a cautionary message for changing weather patterns that may turn more serious.

Both types of alerts are crucial in saving lives and reducing damage during unpredictable monsoon weather. Lightning and thunderstorms are common during the Indian monsoon, but they can be deadly if ignored. Every year, lightning-related fatalities are reported in rural Bihar, often involving farmers working in open fields.

With this latest warning, the IMD is taking proactive steps to ensure public awareness and safety. Residents in affected districts are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and to secure loose objects in open spaces.

What Citizens Should Do During This Alert

People living in orange and yellow alert zones are advised to take precautionary steps. These include staying indoors during thunderstorms, disconnecting electrical appliances, and avoiding tall structures or trees during lightning events.

Farmers are requested to postpone any fieldwork during storm warnings and avoid using metal tools. Travelers are advised to check local weather reports before starting their journeys. Emergency services have also been placed on standby in several districts to handle any crisis.

District administrations are expected to activate their local disaster response units and remain in touch with weather officials for real-time updates. Community centers and schools may be converted into temporary shelters if needed.

Government Response and Monitoring

The Bihar government has taken note of the IMD’s forecast and has asked concerned departments to remain alert. The Disaster Management Department has begun preparing for any emergency scenarios. Coordination with local block and district officials has been increased.

Weather monitoring systems across Bihar are also being kept under close observation. The IMD is expected to release updates every 12 hours or as conditions evolve. Special advisories for fishermen, rural workers, and transportation services are also being issued.

Government officials have emphasized that early warnings must be taken seriously by all stakeholders, including village heads, school administrators, and transport services. The emphasis is on preventing loss of life and minimizing disruption to public life.

Rising Climate Uncertainty in Eastern India

This latest weather development in Bihar once again highlights the growing uncertainty of climate conditions in eastern India. While monsoon activity remains active, the distribution of rainfall has become uneven and erratic in recent years. Some districts face flooding, while others continue to suffer from drought-like conditions.

Experts believe that these patterns could be linked to long-term climate change effects, such as warming oceans, altered wind patterns, and deforestation. As a result, states like Bihar are experiencing more frequent weather alerts and unpredictable seasonal behavior.

This makes the role of accurate forecasts and public awareness even more vital. Timely alerts, combined with citizen cooperation, can help reduce the risks posed by extreme weather.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect in the Coming Days

According to the IMD’s short-term forecast, Bihar may continue to experience sporadic rainfall and storms over the next few days. Some improvement in the rainfall deficit is possible if the current weather system remains active. However, widespread and consistent rain across all districts remains uncertain.

The government may consider artificial rain techniques or supplementary irrigation schemes if the deficit continues. Meanwhile, the public is being asked to follow all weather-related advisories and remain vigilant.

Farmers, students, and daily commuters are likely to be the most affected groups during this weather alert. Schools, colleges, and offices may face disruption depending on the intensity of the weather.

The IMD and Bihar authorities are urging citizens not to take this weather alert lightly. With lightning, strong winds, and heavy rains expected in many parts, preparation and caution are key. People in both orange and yellow alert districts should keep an eye on local news and official weather channels for regular updates.

This is a critical time for the state as it tries to balance the impact of a below-average monsoon with the challenges of sudden extreme weather. Proper preparedness and timely government intervention will be crucial in preventing damage and ensuring safety.