KKN Gurugram Desk | The long-awaited monsoon has finally arrived in Bihar, bringing with it a dramatic shift in the state’s weather. Torrential rains, accompanied by powerful thunderstorms and lightning, have lashed several districts, claiming lives and disrupting daily life.

As per the latest forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to continue over eastern Bihar for the next few days. An Orange Alert has been issued in multiple districts, signaling the likelihood of severe weather conditions that could impact public life and infrastructure.

Lightning Strikes Claim Lives in Multiple Districts

In a tragic turn of events, lightning strikes have resulted in the deaths of several individuals across Bihar, with initial reports indicating fatalities in Bhagalpur, Purnia, Katihar, and Banka districts. The victims, mostly farmers and laborers working in open fields, were caught unaware by the sudden change in weather.

District administrations have confirmed the deaths and announced compensation packages for the families of the deceased under the state disaster relief guidelines. Officials have urged residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid using mobile phones or standing under trees.

District-wise Weather Alert: Orange Warning Issued

The IMD has placed several districts in Orange Alert category, highlighting the potential for:

• Heavy to very heavy rainfall

• Gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-60 km/h

• Cloud-to-ground lightning strikes

• Localized flooding in low-lying areas

The affected districts include:

• Purnia

• Kishanganj

• Bhagalpur

• Katihar

• Saharsa

• Araria

• Banka

Residents in these regions are advised to remain cautious, monitor official weather updates, and follow instructions from the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA).

Impact on Agriculture and Rural Areas

The onset of monsoon brings both relief and risk to Bihar’s primarily agrarian economy. While farmers were eagerly waiting for the rains to begin Kharif crop sowing, the sudden and intense downpour has raised concerns over soil erosion, waterlogging, and damage to pre-sown seeds.

In rural districts, many roads have become muddy and impassable. Electricity supply has been disrupted in parts of eastern Bihar due to damaged power lines caused by falling trees and lightning.

Local panchayats and agriculture officers are assessing the situation to ensure timely support and guidance for farmers.

Monsoon Forecast for Bihar: What Lies Ahead

According to IMD Patna, the southwest monsoon is expected to progress further across central and northern Bihar in the next 48 hours. The rainfall intensity may reduce slightly by the weekend, but the overall wet spell will continue through the third week of June.

Meteorologists have warned of frequent thunderstorm activity during early monsoon days, especially during afternoon and evening hours. People are advised to:

• Avoid outdoor activity during lightning alerts

• Secure loose items like tin roofs and hoardings

• Keep emergency kits ready in flood-prone areas

Urban Areas Witness Traffic Disruptions and Power Outages

In cities like Patna, Muzaffarpur, and Gaya, the heavy rains led to traffic snarls, waterlogging, and temporary power cuts. Commuters faced long delays due to flooded roads and poor visibility.

The Patna Municipal Corporation deployed pumps to clear water from key intersections and underpasses. However, the drainage system in many parts of the city struggled to cope with the sudden volume of rainwater.

Authorities have also put disaster response teams on standby in flood-sensitive areas along the Ganga and Kosi rivers.

Government Response and Public Advisory

The Bihar government has activated district-level emergency cells to monitor the evolving situation. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has directed officials to ensure timely relief, public safety, and infrastructure readiness.

A public advisory issued by the Bihar SDMA includes the following precautions:

• Stay away from open fields, trees, and water bodies during thunderstorms.

• Do not use electronic devices when lightning is observed.

• Follow updates via official weather portals, radio, and mobile alerts.

Schools in some districts have been asked to suspend outdoor activities until further notice.

Safety Tips During Lightning and Storms

To minimize risk during extreme weather, residents are urged to follow these guidelines:

• Unplug all electrical appliances during a thunderstorm.

• Stay inside a concrete building or vehicle.

• If caught outside, crouch low with feet together—do not lie flat on the ground.

• Avoid taking shelter under isolated trees or standing near electric poles.

While the arrival of monsoon brings much-needed respite from scorching heat and supports agriculture, it also demands vigilance and preparedness from both the government and the public.

With the forecast indicating continued rain and thunderstorm activity, the people of Bihar are advised to remain alert, follow safety instructions, and support local efforts in dealing with emergencies.

KKNLive will continue to provide real-time updates, expert analysis, and verified news on the ongoing weather situation in Bihar.