Bihar Weather Update: Sweltering Heat in 13 Districts, Rain and Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for 27 Others

KKN Gurugram Desk | Weather conditions in Bihar have taken a drastic turn, with sharp contrasts in climatic patterns observed across the state. While 13 districts, including the capital city Patna, continue to face intense heat and humidity, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning in 27 other districts.

This report explores the evolving weather scenario in Bihar over the next 24 hours and the forecast trends expected to persist for the coming week. The analysis includes rainfall data, temperature shifts, and precautionary advisories from IMD.

Extreme Heatwave and Humidity in Patna and 12 Other Districts

Residents in Patna and 12 other districts are currently facing the dual burden of high temperatures and elevated humidity levels. According to IMD Patna, these districts are unlikely to see rainfall within the next 24 hours, and the heat index will remain high due to increased moisture content in the air caused by easterly winds.

Districts Facing Intense Heat:

• Patna

• Buxar

• Bhojpur

• Rohtas

• Aurangabad

• Gaya

• Nalanda

• Sheikhpura

• Lakhisarai

• Nawada

• Jehanabad

• Arwal

• Vaishali

These districts are experiencing daytime maximum temperatures ranging between 37°C to 42°C, with real-feel temperatures soaring higher due to the oppressive humidity.

27 Districts on Alert: Rainfall, Thunderstorm, and Lightning Warnings

While the southern and central regions of Bihar continue to reel under sweltering heat, eastern and northern districts are witnessing a completely different weather dynamic. IMD has issued a ‘Yellow Alert’ for rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning activity in as many as 27 districts.

Districts Likely to Receive Rainfall:

• Purnia

• Katihar

• Kishanganj

• Araria

• Madhepura

• Supaul

• Saharsa

• Khagaria

• Begusarai

• Sitamarhi

• Madhubani

• Darbhanga

• Muzaffarpur

• Samastipur

• East Champaran

• West Champaran

• Sheohar

• Saran

• Gopalganj

• Siwan

• Banka

• Bhagalpur

• Munger

• Jamui

• Kaimur

• Dehri

• Lakhisarai

In these districts, intermittent to moderate rainfall accompanied by gusty winds (30–40 km/h) and cloud-to-ground lightning is expected. Citizens are advised to stay indoors during thunderstorm hours and avoid taking shelter under trees or near electric poles.

Impact of Easterly Winds: How They Are Fueling Discomfort

Easterly winds blowing across the Indo-Gangetic plains are contributing significantly to the prevailing humidity. These winds bring moisture-laden air from the Bay of Bengal, which, combined with local heat, results in an uncomfortable weather profile—especially in urban centers like Patna, Gaya, and Bhagalpur.

Meteorologists warn that such climatic conditions could also increase the likelihood of localized heat stress, especially among vulnerable groups like children, elderly citizens, and outdoor workers.

Rainfall Data: Last 24 Hours

Rain activity was recorded in several regions of Bihar over the past 24 hours. The highest rainfall was observed in Motipur, Muzaffarpur, where 59 mm of precipitation was recorded. Scattered showers were also reported from various parts of northern Bihar, bringing temporary relief from the scorching heat.

Temperature Trends and Shifts

According to the data released by the Meteorological Department:

• Patna recorded a slight drop of 1.3°C, bringing the max temperature to 37.7°C.

• Dehri-on-Sone emerged as the hottest region in Bihar, logging a maximum temperature of 42.0°C.

• At least 11 districts reported a marginal drop in temperature due to overnight rain and cloud cover.

• However, in central and southern districts, temperature levels either remained constant or showed an upward trend.

Next 7-Day Forecast: What to Expect

Looking ahead, the weather pattern in Bihar is expected to remain divided:

• Northern and Eastern Bihar: Intermittent rainfall, thunderstorms, and chances of flash lightning events.

• Southern Bihar: Dry weather with high humidity, no immediate signs of relief.

• Central Bihar: Mixed weather with potential for light rain in isolated regions but largely humid days.

Meteorologists forecast no significant temperature drop in southern districts over the next seven days. In contrast, eastern districts may see a cumulative rainfall of 20–40 mm depending on local developments.

Public Advisory: What Citizens Should Do

In light of the current forecast, IMD and disaster management authorities recommend the following safety measures:

For Heatwave-Prone Districts:

• Stay hydrated and avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours.

• Wear loose, cotton clothes and keep the head covered.

• Use coolers, fans, or stay in shaded areas as much as possible.

For Rain-Affected Districts:

• Avoid taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms.

• Stay indoors when lightning warnings are issued.

• Switch off electrical appliances and unplug devices during storms.

• Keep emergency lights, drinking water, and food supplies ready.

Agricultural Impact: Mixed Signals for Farmers

The varied weather conditions have left farmers in a dilemma. While rain is beneficial for paddy seedling and early sowing in the northern belt, excessive heat in southern Bihar is delaying field preparation. IMD’s advisory for farmers recommends:

• Postpone irrigation in areas where rain is forecasted.

• Avoid pesticide spraying during high humidity or rainfall.

• Utilize rainfall for natural irrigation wherever feasible.

Infrastructure and Power Disruptions

Past experiences have shown that intense lightning and storms often lead to power cuts and disruptions in mobile networks. The Bihar State Power Holding Corporation Limited (BSPHCL) has urged residents to report faults immediately and avoid contact with electric poles or wires during rain events.

Expert Opinion: Why Bihar Is Seeing Split Weather Trends

Climatologists attribute this split pattern to localized convectional activity and regional atmospheric pressure differences. The Monsoon Trough Line currently lies slightly north of its normal position, favoring cloud buildup and precipitation in the northeastern belt while keeping southern Bihar dry.

Weather analyst Dr. R. K. Singh from Patna University said:

“These conditions are not unusual for pre-monsoon season. What’s concerning is the combination of high heat and humidity, which can lead to heatstroke risks and exacerbate health issues.

Bihar’s weather remains unpredictable, oscillating between sultry heat in the south and thunderstorms in the north and east. As the state braces for shifting weather patterns over the next week, staying alert and informed is crucial for both urban and rural populations.

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