Bihar Weather Today: Yellow Alert in 19 Districts

The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for several parts of Bihar. According to the latest Bihar weather update, 19 districts are under the risk of thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds today, Saturday, 16 August 2025. The warning covers Muzaffarpur, Bhagalpur, Purnea, and many other regions in northern and eastern Bihar. While some areas will experience light to moderate rainfall, other regions are expected to remain hot and humid.

Yellow Alert Issued for Thunderstorm and Lightning in Bihar

The weather department has cautioned people in northern, eastern, and Koshi regions of Bihar. A yellow alert has been announced as thunderstorm activities may intensify during the day. Winds are likely to blow at a speed of 30 to 40 kilometers per hour in several districts. Along with this, there is a risk of lightning strikes at different locations.

According to the forecast from the Patna Meteorological Centre, areas including Samastipur, Vaishali, Muzaffarpur, Shivhar, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Darbhanga, Supaul, Madhepura, Saharsa, Khagaria, Munger, Jamui, Banka, Bhagalpur, Katihar, Purnea, Araria, and Kishanganj may experience thunderstorms today. Many of these districts may also receive scattered rainfall. Residents have been advised to stay alert and avoid unnecessary outdoor movement during stormy weather.

Rainfall Expected in North and East Bihar

Monsoon activities have remained active in North Bihar and adjoining regions. The weather models indicate that several places in Koshi, Seemanchal, and eastern districts will receive rainfall during the day. The rain is likely to be light to moderate in intensity. While some areas may only witness cloudy skies, others may receive brief showers accompanied by strong winds.

This spell of rainfall will bring relief to parts of Bihar where humidity and rising temperatures have made conditions uncomfortable. Farmers in the region are also expecting the rains to support paddy and maize crops that depend heavily on monsoon showers. However, the risk of lightning remains a major concern for people working in open fields.

Little Chance of Rain in South Bihar

The weather forecast for southern Bihar shows a different pattern. According to the meteorological department, cities such as Patna, Ara, Buxar, Kaimur, and Lakhisarai may not receive much rainfall today. Monsoon activity in this belt is expected to remain weak. Residents in these districts will continue to face hot and humid weather conditions. The combination of high temperature and moisture in the air is likely to make the atmosphere uncomfortable.

Patna, the state capital, is expected to see cloudy skies but no significant rainfall. The lack of rain will continue to trouble people who are already dealing with heat stress. The department has also said that similar weather conditions may prevail for the next two to three days. Until monsoon winds strengthen again, the southern parts of Bihar will remain under pressure of heat and humidity.

Rising Concerns Over Lightning Strikes

The risk of lightning during thunderstorms has been a serious concern for Bihar. Every year, many lives are lost due to lightning strikes during the monsoon season. The yellow alert issued today once again highlights this danger. Experts have advised people to avoid open fields, riversides, and tall trees during stormy weather. Farmers and workers who spend long hours outside have been urged to take special care.

The government has also been promoting awareness campaigns about lightning safety. People are advised to stay indoors during thunderstorms and to avoid using electrical appliances when lightning is frequent. Despite repeated warnings, incidents of lightning strikes continue to claim lives across the state.

Monsoon Weak in South, Active in North

Meteorologists explain that the monsoon is currently weak over southern Bihar but more active in the northern and eastern parts. The distribution of rainfall in the state often shows such uneven patterns. While Koshi and Seemanchal zones are receiving regular showers, districts around Patna and southern Bihar remain relatively dry.

This variation is common during the monsoon season. Wind patterns, low-pressure systems, and moisture levels determine the intensity of rainfall in different areas. Experts believe that conditions may soon change as weather systems develop in the Bay of Bengal. These systems are likely to bring more rain to the entire state after a few days.

Heavy Rain Likely After 20 August

The forecast for the coming week suggests that Bihar may experience heavy rainfall after 20 August. According to the meteorological department, monsoon activity is expected to intensify again, leading to widespread showers across many districts. Several models indicate the formation of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal around that time. Such systems usually push moisture-laden winds into Bihar, triggering heavy rainfall.

This expected spell of heavy rain could provide much-needed relief to the southern and central districts that have remained dry. However, it may also increase the risk of waterlogging and floods in flood-prone districts. Rivers such as Kosi, Gandak, and Bagmati may see rising water levels once the heavy rains begin. The government has been asked to stay prepared for relief measures.

Impact on Agriculture and Rural Life

Rainfall patterns directly affect agriculture in Bihar, where a majority of the population depends on farming. The current forecast of scattered showers in northern Bihar is good news for paddy fields, which require standing water at this stage of growth. However, insufficient rainfall in southern Bihar is creating stress for farmers. Crops like maize, pulses, and vegetables are highly dependent on timely rainfall.

If the predicted heavy rainfall after 20 August arrives on time, it will improve the prospects of a good harvest. But too much rain may also damage crops and flood fields. The balance of rainfall is crucial for rural households, many of whom have already faced economic challenges due to floods in recent years.

Bihar Flood Situation and Preparations

The state has recently seen reports of flood impact, with millions of people affected in low-lying areas. Although the water levels of major rivers are currently stable, any heavy rain in the coming week may change the situation. The government has directed officials to ensure that relief and compensation are distributed quickly in flood-hit regions.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has asked authorities to strengthen embankments and monitor river levels closely. The administration has also been told to keep shelters and rescue teams ready in vulnerable districts. With the forecast of more rain after 20 August, concerns about fresh flooding remain high.

Weather Outlook for the Next Few Days

For the next two to three days, the weather pattern in Bihar will likely remain unchanged. Northern districts may continue to receive occasional showers, while southern districts will see hot and humid conditions. Cloudy skies are expected in most areas, with occasional sunny spells. Temperatures in Patna and nearby regions may rise due to lack of rainfall.

After 20 August, the situation may change drastically. Meteorologists are expecting stronger monsoon currents and widespread rainfall across Bihar. The upcoming rain spell may also mark one of the heaviest phases of the monsoon season this year.

Public Advisory During Yellow Alert

The weather department has advised people to remain alert during the yellow alert period. Residents in the affected districts have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel during thunderstorms. Farmers have been asked to keep livestock safe and avoid working in open fields when lightning is frequent.

The advisory also mentions that people should not take shelter under isolated trees or in open areas during storms. Those living in rural areas should secure their houses and ensure that children remain indoors during bad weather. Authorities have warned that even a short spell of lightning can cause loss of life and property.

The Bihar weather forecast for today, Saturday 16 August 2025, indicates a yellow alert across 19 districts. While northern and eastern Bihar may receive rainfall with thunderstorms, southern districts including Patna are likely to remain dry. Residents must remain alert due to the risk of lightning and strong winds.

The overall monsoon activity is expected to strengthen after 20 August, bringing widespread rainfall to the state. This may help agriculture but may also increase the risk of floods in several regions. The people of Bihar are advised to stay prepared and follow the safety guidelines issued by the authorities.