Monsoon Intensifies in Bihar: Heavy Rainfall Brings Waterlogging Across 16 Districts

The monsoon has once again become active in Bihar, drenching large parts of the state. In the past 24 hours, several districts, including the capital Patna, have received continuous rainfall. This has led to waterlogging in multiple areas, causing inconvenience to residents and disrupting daily life. According to the India Meteorological Department’s Patna centre, the current weather pattern is likely to persist for the next three to four days.

Heavy Rainfall Across the State

Rain has been recorded in various intensities across the state, from light showers to very heavy downpours. Khagaria district received the heaviest rainfall, recording 206 mm in a single day. Patna, the state capital, saw 19 mm of rainfall by 9:30 am on Wednesday, and by the end of the day, the figure had reached 29.1 mm. The rains have brought relief from the humid heat, and temperatures have fallen in many places.

The meteorological department has forecast rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms in most parts of the state within the next 24 hours. Winds are expected to blow at speeds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour in several areas, along with warnings of lightning strikes.

Weather Alert for Several Districts

Heavy rainfall is expected in Kishanganj district, with intense showers predicted in the coming days. The department has issued a warning for lightning, urging residents to remain indoors during thunderstorms. This advisory applies particularly to central and eastern parts of Bihar, where wind speeds could pick up further.

On August 15, very heavy rainfall is predicted in Gaya and West Champaran districts. Authorities have advised residents in these regions to take precautions and avoid venturing out during severe weather conditions.

Recorded Rainfall in Various Areas

Several towns and villages have recorded significant rainfall in the past day. In Khagaria’s Mansi block, 188.6 mm of rain was reported, while Parsa in Saran recorded 157.4 mm. In Taibpur of Kishanganj, the figure stood at 135.2 mm, followed by 122.4 mm in Raniganj of Araria. Thakurganj in Kishanganj received 117.6 mm, Jokihat in Araria saw 108.2 mm, and Baisa in Purnia recorded 98.8 mm.

Chargharia in Kishanganj experienced 97 mm of rain, Gogri in Khagaria recorded 82.4 mm, and Dighwara in Saran received 80.2 mm. Similarly, Tilouthu in Rohtas saw 80.2 mm, Indrapuri in Rohtas received 77.6 mm, Bachhwara in Begusarai got 76.2 mm, and Mohania recorded 75 mm of rainfall.

Patna’s Weather Situation

In Patna, the maximum temperature was recorded at 27.7 degrees Celsius, while the minimum stood at 26.4 degrees Celsius. The city experienced intermittent rain throughout the day, which not only cooled the weather but also led to waterlogging in several neighbourhoods. Drainage systems in some parts of the city struggled to cope with the sudden inflow of rainwater, leading to traffic congestion and inconvenience for pedestrians.

The Patna Municipal Corporation has deployed teams to clear clogged drains and pump out accumulated water from low-lying areas. Emergency response units are also on standby in case of flooding in vulnerable areas.

Temperatures in Other Major Cities

In Gaya, the maximum temperature was 26.8 degrees Celsius and the minimum 25.6 degrees Celsius. Bhagalpur recorded a maximum of 29.8 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 26.6 degrees Celsius. Muzaffarpur saw 27.8 degrees Celsius as the maximum and 26.5 degrees Celsius as the minimum temperature.

Motu in East Champaran experienced the highest maximum temperature in the state at 34.8 degrees Celsius, showing a sharp contrast to the cooler conditions in rain-affected districts.

Relief from Humidity

The recent rainfall has provided much-needed relief from the sweltering humidity that had been troubling residents for weeks. Before the rains, heat and humidity levels had been high across the state, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. The showers have now brought temperatures down and improved air quality.

However, along with relief, the rains have also brought challenges. Waterlogging in residential colonies, commercial areas, and near marketplaces has made movement difficult. Rural areas with poor drainage systems are particularly affected, with standing water in fields and pathways.

Farmers Welcome the Rain

For the farming community, this spell of rainfall is a blessing. Paddy cultivation, which depends heavily on monsoon rains, will benefit significantly from the current weather. Many farmers in Khagaria, Purnia, and Kishanganj have already started transplanting paddy seedlings in their fields. The moisture will also help in the growth of maize, pulses, and vegetables.

Agricultural experts, however, caution that excessive rainfall could damage crops if water remains stagnant in fields for long. Proper drainage is necessary to prevent root rot and other plant diseases.

Advisory for Residents

The weather department has urged people to stay indoors during heavy rain and thunderstorms. Residents are advised to avoid taking shelter under trees during lightning and to stay away from open fields. Those living in low-lying areas should remain alert for possible flooding.

Authorities have also reminded citizens to be cautious while driving in waterlogged areas. Vehicles can stall if water enters the engine, and potholes hidden under water can cause accidents. Emergency helpline numbers have been circulated for residents to report any weather-related emergencies.

Traffic and Transportation Impact

The heavy rains have disrupted road traffic in several parts of Bihar. In Patna, key routes such as Bailey Road, Ashok Rajpath, and Kankarbagh have reported slow-moving traffic due to waterlogging. In rural areas, kutcha roads have become slippery and muddy, making travel difficult for villagers.

Public transport services, including buses and auto-rickshaws, have been running slower than usual. Train services in the state, however, have largely remained unaffected so far, with no major delays reported.

Government and Civic Body Response

The Bihar Disaster Management Department has been monitoring the situation closely. Relief and rescue teams have been placed on alert in districts with high rainfall forecasts. The Water Resources Department is also keeping a close watch on river water levels, especially in flood-prone districts.

Municipal bodies in Patna, Bhagalpur, and Muzaffarpur are working on clearing drains and removing debris to improve water flow. Additional pumps have been installed in flood-prone colonies to ensure quick drainage.

Health Concerns After Rain

Medical experts have warned about possible outbreaks of waterborne diseases like diarrhoea, cholera, and dengue due to stagnant water. Citizens are being advised to drink boiled or filtered water and maintain personal hygiene. Residents are also urged to avoid walking through flooded areas to prevent skin infections.

The Road Ahead

With the monsoon expected to remain active over Bihar for the next few days, more rainfall is likely. While this is good news for agriculture, urban areas will need to tackle waterlogging and traffic disruptions. Authorities have stressed the importance of staying prepared and cooperating with weather advisories.

For now, Bihar remains in the grip of an active monsoon, bringing both relief and challenges to its people. The rains will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the coming weeks, affecting everything from farming to daily life.