KKN Gurugram Desk | The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh alert for heavy rainfall and thunderstorm activity across several districts in Bihar. The alert comes following a significant shift in the region’s weather pattern that began on Sunday, bringing relief from rising summer temperatures and triggering safety concerns due to lightning strikes and high-speed winds.

Key Highlights:

• IMD issues heavy rainfall and thunderstorm alert in 12 Bihar districts.

• Lightning kills 3 people in Madhepura.

• Patna records maximum temperature of 33.9°C with AQI at 95.

• Several districts remain under orange alert as dense cloud cover and gusty winds persist.

Severe Weather Grips Bihar: IMD Issues Orange Alert

After a spell of dry heat, Bihar is witnessing a major meteorological transition. A substantial drop in temperatures was observed across several regions due to continuous rainfall, notably in Purnia, Katihar, and Kishanganj, where it rained overnight. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of continued bad weather on Monday.

According to the Patna Meteorological Centre, 12 districts are under alert for heavy rain accompanied by thunder, lightning, and gusty winds ranging from 50 to 60 km/h. Dense clouds are expected to cover most of southern and southwestern Bihar, increasing the chance of severe local storms.

Districts Under Heavy Rain Alert

The IMD’s alert specifically mentions these 12 districts expected to experience heavy downpour and thunderstorms:

• Bhagalpur

• Banka

• Jamui

• Munger

• Khagaria

• Supaul

• Araria

• Kishanganj

• Saharsa

• Madhepura

• Purnia

• Katihar

These regions may also face wind speeds between 50–60 km/h, leading to possible disruptions in daily life and travel. IMD urges people to take necessary precautions, especially farmers and those working in open fields.

Lightning Strike Tragedy in Madhepura

In a tragic incident, three individuals lost their lives in Madhepura due to a lightning strike on Sunday. The victims were reportedly outdoors when the fatal strike occurred, highlighting the dangers of unpredictable pre-monsoon conditions.

Local authorities have issued public advisories, especially to rural residents, to avoid open areas during storm warnings. The district administration is also working on relief and compensation measures for the affected families.

Rainfall Across Key Regions: Status Report

According to updated reports, widespread rainfall occurred in several districts on May 18 and continued into the night:

• Aurangabad recorded heavy showers.

• Munger, Madhubani, Sheikhpura, Nalanda, Purnia, Kishanganj, Jehanabad, Nawada, Lakhisarai, Supoul, and Begusarai also reported moderate to heavy rainfall.

• Many of these districts are now under orange alert, indicating the possibility of extreme weather.

The changing weather is both a relief from oppressive heat and a challenge for farmers and city planners alike, as waterlogging and lightning hazards increase.

Pleasant Weather with Light Rain Forecast in Northern Bihar

Meanwhile, districts such as:

• West Champaran

• East Champaran

• Sitamarhi

• Sheohar

• Madhubani

are expected to witness light rain with lower wind intensity, around 30–40 km/h. The cloud cover and breeze may make conditions pleasant, though not completely risk-free.

Dry Conditions to Persist in Central and Western Bihar

The following districts are predicted to stay largely dry for the day, despite cloud movement:

• Buxar

• Bhojpur

• Rohtas

• Kaimur (Bhabhua)

• Aurangabad

• Arwal

• Patna

• Jehanabad

• Nalanda

• Nawada

• Sheikhpura

• Lakhisarai

• Begusarai

• Gaya

Despite dry conditions, the presence of intermittent cloudiness may still cause temperature fluctuations. IMD has forecast maximum temperatures ranging from 34°C to 38°C for these areas.

City-wise Weather and AQI Report

Note: AQI below 100 is considered acceptable for most individuals, though sensitive groups should monitor exposure.

IMD’s Advisory and Precautionary Measures

In light of the severe weather alert, the IMD recommends the following:

• Avoid outdoor activities, especially in open fields, during lightning warnings.

• Secure loose objects and temporary structures.

• Farmers should postpone irrigation and pesticide application.

• Stay updated via official IMD weather updates and local administration notices.

Monsoon Arrival Expected Soon

Meteorologists believe that this wave of pre-monsoon showers is an early indicator of monsoon arrival, typically expected in early to mid-June in Bihar. The fluctuating temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns are in line with long-term climate trends, suggesting earlier and more intense monsoon activity in coming years.

Impact on Agriculture and Infrastructure

The early rains bring mixed blessings:

 Positive Impact:

• Helps in reducing soil temperature, beneficial for early sowing.

• Relieves residents from intense summer heat.

 Challenges:

• May damage standing crops like maize or vegetables due to hail or excess water.

• Risk of flooding in low-lying areas if rainfall intensifies.

• Urban areas like Patna face drainage and traffic disruptions.

Bihar continues to grapple with shifting weather patterns that bring both relief and risk. With 12 districts under direct threat of heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds, residents are advised to remain alert and follow safety advisories.