The monsoon in Bihar has taken an intense and destructive turn, with the capital city Patna submerged following heavy rainfall. On Monday, the city recorded 106 mm of rainfall, causing severe waterlogging and major disruptions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a stern warning that this is only the beginning of what may become a widespread weather crisis across the state in the coming days.

Widespread Rainfall Predicted Across Bihar

According to the latest update from the Patna Meteorological Department, heavy rainfall is expected to continue throughout the state today. Districts such as Gaya, Jamui, and Araria have been marked for particularly intense rainfall. This has led to growing concerns that the water levels of major rivers could rise rapidly, increasing the risk of floods in many areas.

The forecast indicates that torrential rain is likely to batter all 38 districts of Bihar today, July 29. IMD has sounded an orange alert, urging citizens and local administrations in affected areas to remain vigilant. Eastern Bihar is likely to bear the brunt, with the weather department advising extra caution for these districts. Cities like Araria, Banka, and Jamui could witness extreme downpours, while places such as Munger, Nawada, and Gaya are also on high alert for heavy rainfall. Other regions are expected to experience moderate yet continuous rain throughout the day.

Patna’s Struggles Amid 106 mm Rainfall

The state capital Patna has offered a grim preview of the monsoon’s intensity. Even with 106 mm of rainfall, the city’s roads were completely flooded. Residents struggled to commute, and several low-lying areas were submerged. Water had entered homes and shops in several localities, disrupting everyday life.

This situation is likely to worsen as the IMD has confirmed that the current pattern of heavy rainfall is far from over. Urban areas in particular may face severe challenges, including traffic jams, waterlogging, power outages, and health-related issues if the rains persist without respite.

Increased Flood Risk Due to Rising River Levels

The current weather patterns are highly favourable for heavy to very heavy rainfall across various parts of Bihar over the next five days. This has raised the alarm for a potential flood situation. The IMD has particularly flagged the rising water levels of the Ganga River, which could overflow and pose serious threats to low-lying areas in northern Bihar. If rain continues at the current pace, districts situated along the Ganga’s course might soon face severe inundation.

Meanwhile, southern Bihar is also expected to receive significant rainfall, though the risk of flooding is currently lower. However, due to continuous rainfall, rivers such as the Son and Falgu may see a rise in water levels. Inhabitants near the riverbanks could face water accumulation, making transportation and daily life difficult.

Weather Conditions Across Major Cities

On Monday, Patna recorded a maximum temperature of 29.1°C and a minimum of 26.7°C with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 54. Muzaffarpur registered 30.0°C as the highest and 28.1°C as the lowest temperature with an AQI of 42. Gaya recorded 29.4°C and 25.6°C, while Purnia saw temperatures touching 33.0°C and 26.7°C with an AQI of 42. These figures show that while temperatures remain moderate due to rainfall, the moisture levels in the atmosphere are high, intensifying humidity and discomfort.

Government and Administration on High Alert

In light of the heavy rainfall alert, district administrations have been asked to prepare emergency measures. Local bodies have begun work to unclog drains and prepare shelters in anticipation of potential evacuations. Relief teams have been placed on standby in vulnerable regions.

Disaster management departments are monitoring water levels in rivers and updating local authorities accordingly. Citizens are being urged to stay indoors during intense rainfall and avoid waterlogged areas. Schools in some flood-prone districts have declared holidays, and transport services are under review to prevent accidents.

Farmers Await Rains But Fear Crop Damage

While monsoon rains are essential for agriculture in Bihar, the sudden and intense rainfall is proving to be a double-edged sword. Farmers, who were waiting for the rains to begin sowing, are now concerned about damage to standing crops and soil erosion due to water accumulation.

Floods may also affect the transportation of essential agricultural inputs like seeds and fertilizers. If the situation worsens, it could impact this season’s crop yield, especially in districts heavily reliant on paddy cultivation.

Eastern Bihar Faces Highest Risk

The IMD has identified eastern Bihar as the most vulnerable region for severe rainfall and flash floods. Districts like Katihar, Purnia, Kishanganj, and Bhagalpur are expected to witness prolonged and heavy downpours. These areas, due to their geography and proximity to rivers, are particularly prone to flooding and water stagnation.

Rescue and relief operations are likely to be concentrated in these districts if the weather conditions continue to deteriorate. The government has issued instructions to monitor embankments, check the functionality of flood control gates, and ensure the availability of rescue boats and supplies.

Precautionary Measures Urged for Residents

The IMD and local authorities are appealing to the public to take all necessary precautions during this period of extreme weather. Residents are advised to:

• Avoid unnecessary travel during rain hours

• Keep emergency supplies, such as dry food and clean water, ready

• Unplug electrical appliances if water enters homes

• Stay updated through official weather bulletins and announcements

In urban centers like Patna, people are being asked to avoid driving through flooded streets to prevent accidents or damage to vehicles. The municipal corporation has been instructed to remain on alert for any sudden rise in water levels or reports of waterborne diseases.

Next Five Days Crucial for Bihar

Weather experts believe that the next five days will be critical for Bihar. The state may witness some of the heaviest rainfall of the monsoon season during this period. All 38 districts are likely to experience varying intensities of rain, with flood-prone areas facing the highest risk.

Authorities are continuously monitoring satellite and radar data to track weather movements. Updates are being shared with district officials to ensure timely response and safety of residents.

The overall message from the meteorological department is clear: stay alert, stay indoors if possible, and prepare for continued rainfall. Bihar is staring at a monsoon season that could bring both relief for farmers and disaster for those in vulnerable zones.

Bihar is currently under a severe monsoon onslaught, and the situation is likely to remain critical for several days. With Patna already experiencing major disruption due to 106 mm of rain and forecasts indicating heavier rain across all 38 districts, the threat of flooding looms large. Authorities are on alert, and residents are advised to follow safety protocols closely. The coming days will test the resilience of the state’s infrastructure and its preparedness to deal with natural calamities.