KKN Gurugram Desk | Over the past week, Bihar’s weather has taken a dramatic turn, disrupting daily life and raising serious concerns about public safety. Several regions across the state have witnessed intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes, resulting in loss of life and property damage in isolated incidents.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this unusual weather trend is expected to continue over the next few days. A high alert has been issued for 14th April, with heavy rains and thunderstorms likely in 27 districts, accompanied by a heightened risk of lightning strikes and gusty winds.

Thunderstorm Alert for April 14: 27 Districts Under High-Risk Zone

The IMD’s regional office in Patna has identified 27 districts where extreme weather conditions are expected today. Residents of these areas have been warned to remain indoors during storm activity, avoid open spaces, and take necessary precautions.

The wind speed in affected areas could reach 40–50 km/h, raising concerns about falling trees, power outages, and structural damage in vulnerable localities.

Key districts under alert today include:

• Patna

• Gaya

• Bhagalpur

• Muzaffarpur

• Darbhanga

• Samastipur

• Purnia

• Katihar

• Araria (and 18 others — full list available on IMD portal)

Weather Forecast Until April 19: Rain and Sun to Alternate

The current weather cycle is part of a larger transitional pattern impacting much of North India. While the pre-monsoon season often brings sporadic rainfall, this year’s intensity and frequency have surprised many experts.

The forecast indicates:

• Scattered rainfall across the state daily until April 19

• Alternate spells of bright sun and sudden downpours

• Increased lightning activity, especially in rural zones

• Chances of hailstorm in select districts

Why Is Bihar Experiencing Sudden Weather Changes?

Experts at the Meteorological Centre have attributed this extreme weather to:

1. Western Disturbances moving across northern plains

2. Moisture inflow from the Bay of Bengal

3. Sudden temperature variations between day and night

These factors together have created an atmosphere conducive to convectional rainfall, which often results in localized thunderstorms and lightning.

According to Dr. Vinay Kumar, a senior climate scientist at the Patna Weather Centre:

“We’re witnessing a volatile atmosphere due to the clash of hot and humid air masses. This pattern is likely to continue through the month unless there’s a shift in wind dynamics.”

Casualties and Damage So Far

Over the last week, several districts have reported casualties due to lightning strikes, as well as incidents of crop damage, waterlogging, and minor landslides in hilly zones.

Reported Incidents:

• Gaya: 3 reported deaths from lightning

• Begusarai: Damage to electrical poles and transformers

• Aurangabad: Roof collapse injures 4

• Rural areas: Farmlands flooded, particularly maize and wheat crops

The State Disaster Management Department (SDMD) is currently compiling a full report, and compensation packages for affected families are expected to be announced soon.

Disaster Management and Public Safety Measures

In response to the situation, the Bihar Disaster Management Authority (BDMA) has activated emergency protocols. Local administrations have been directed to:

• Issue SMS alerts to residents in high-risk zones

• Keep emergency shelters and relief centres ready

• Coordinate with block-level officers to ensure quick response

• Spread awareness through community radio and WhatsApp groups

People have been urged not to venture out unnecessarily during storm activity and to follow the “Lightning Safety Protocol” issued by the IMD.

Lightning Safety Tips Issued by IMD:

1. Avoid open fields and high ground during a thunderstorm

2. Do not take shelter under isolated trees

3. Stay away from metal structures and electrical appliances

4. Avoid using mobile phones or landlines

5. If outside, find low ground but not waterlogged areas

IMD’s Role and Technological Advancements in Weather Monitoring

The IMD has significantly improved its forecasting models using Doppler radar, satellite imagery, and AI-driven prediction tools. Bihar now benefits from near real-time weather alerts, often shared through local Panchayat networks and district-level officials.

As part of the Digital India initiative, the IMD has launched a bilingual mobile app that gives hyper-local weather updates for rural regions—an important tool in preventing weather-related casualties.

How Farmers Are Being Affected and Supported

This erratic weather comes at a critical time for Bihar’s agriculture sector. The Rabi crop harvest was underway in many areas, and sudden rainfall has led to:

• Waterlogging of harvested fields

• Delayed threshing and drying of grain

• Increased fungal and bacterial infections in stored produce

The Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across districts have been mobilized to offer guidance to farmers. Helplines have also been set up to provide immediate advice.

Farmers are advised to:

• Shift grains to covered spaces

• Use drying nets or tarpaulins

• Apply recommended fungicides if grains are wet

What’s Next: A Week of Vigilance

The coming days will be crucial for residents and authorities in Bihar. With April 14 to April 19 flagged as high-risk days, the state remains on high alert for further storm activity and rainfall.

The Meteorological Department will issue daily updates, and residents are urged to stay connected to official communication channels, including radio, SMS, and mobile apps.

To summarize:

• 27 districts in Bihar face heavy rain, storm, and lightning threats today

• The weather is expected to remain unstable until April 19

• Public is advised to follow safety protocols and weather advisories

• Emergency services and alerts are being deployed across the state