The weather in Bihar is set to take a sharp turn over the next few days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Patna has issued a yellow alert for heavy rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across the state for March 9, 10, and 11. This sudden change comes right after a brief period of intense heat where temperatures in several districts felt like May. The alert is primarily focused on the next 24 to 48 hours.
Which districts are under the weather alert?
The IMD has specifically named nine districts where the weather impact will be the most intense. Residents in Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Madhubani, Darbhanga, Sheikhpura, Samastipur, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, and Nawada need to stay cautious. These areas are expected to experience heavy rainfall along with winds blowing at a speed of 30 to 40 kilometers per hour. Localized hail and lightning strikes are also possible in these regions.
Broadly, the weather alert extends to 32 districts across the state with varying intensity of thunderstorms. Meanwhile, the capital city Patna will see partly cloudy skies. The meteorological centre predicts light drizzle or brief showers for Patna residents rather than heavy downpours.
What is causing this sudden change in weather?
Meteorological experts state that this weather shift is driven by an active Western Disturbance. Additionally, a cyclonic circulation is currently active over northern Odisha and its surrounding regions, pulling moisture into the state. Before this rain system arrived, Bihar was experiencing unusual heat with temperatures running 5 to 6 degrees Celsius above normal.
On March 9, Rajgir recorded a peak temperature of 34.2 degrees Celsius, while Patna reached 33.2 degrees Celsius. The sudden drop in temperatures due to the incoming clouds and rain will provide temporary relief from the early summer heat.
Official safety advisory for residents and farmers
The IMD and local administration have requested the general public to stay indoors during lightning and thunderstorms. People are advised to strictly avoid standing under trees, near electric poles, or in open fields when the weather turns bad. Agriculture officials have also issued a specific appeal to farmers across the state.
The sudden rain and strong winds pose a high risk to standing crops. Farmers are advised to take necessary precautions to protect their harvest. The IMD notes that the weather conditions are expected to improve after March 12 as the impact of the western disturbance begins to weaken over the region.
