KKN Gurugram Desk | The weather in Bihar continues to remain unpredictable as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh rain and thunderstorm alert for the state. On Saturday, three districts were placed under an orange alert due to the likelihood of heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and lightning, while nine others remain under yellow alert.
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This unexpected weather activity has already started affecting daily life, with visible drops in temperature and increased incidents of disruption due to rainfall and strong winds.
Orange Alert Issued for Kishanganj, Araria, and Purnia
According to IMD’s latest Bihar weather update, the districts of Kishanganj, Araria, and Purnia are under an orange alert, signaling severe weather conditions. These areas are expected to witness heavy downpours, accompanied by thunderstorms and strong wind speeds ranging from 40 to 50 km/h.
The alerts are part of the IMD’s preemptive safety measure to minimize risks during this period of unstable pre-monsoon activity.
Nine Districts Under Yellow Alert for Gusty Winds and Rain
In addition to the high-alert zones, nine other districts in Bihar have been issued a yellow alert, indicating moderate risks. These areas could experience wind gusts up to 50 km/h, light to moderate rainfall, and possible thunder activity. Authorities have urged residents to stay updated with official announcements and avoid outdoor activities during storm periods.
Bhawanipur in Purnia Records Season’s Highest Rainfall
In one of the highest readings of the season so far, Bhawanipur in Purnia district recorded 74.2 mm of rainfall, marking a significant spike compared to the usual April precipitation levels. This is part of a wider trend of intensified pre-monsoon activity across Bihar, particularly in the north-central, south-west, and southeastern regions.
Forecast Till April 15: Storms, Rain, and Lightning to Persist
According to the Meteorological Centre in Patna, this pattern of rain and thunderstorms is expected to continue until at least April 15. Residents across central, southeastern, and southwestern Bihar have been advised to exercise extra caution during this period.
Lightning, in particular, remains a significant threat, with Bihar ranked second in the country for lightning-related fatalities. This alarming statistic underlines the need for greater public awareness and adherence to safety advisories.
Expert Insight: “This is a Normal Pre-Monsoon Pattern” – IMD Scientist
Dr. Ashish Kumar, a senior scientist at the Patna Meteorological Centre, described the current conditions as a normal part of pre-monsoon behavior, although he didn’t dismiss the risks to life and property.
“While this is a typical pre-monsoon pattern, cloud-to-ground lightning strikes and sudden gusts of wind can pose severe dangers,” he stated. “We strongly urge people not to step outdoors during storm warnings and to seek shelter for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.”
150% Rise in April Rainfall: Bihar Sees Record Pre-Monsoon Showers
Statistical analysis reveals that April 2025 has seen over 150% increase in rainfall in many districts across Bihar compared to historical averages. Nalanda, Purnia, and other northeastern districts have registered substantially higher rainfall, affecting agriculture, daily commute, and public utilities.
Such unseasonal weather is contributing to a notable dip in temperature. The maximum temperature has fallen by up to 5°C, now hovering between 27°C to 35°C, while minimum temperatures range between 18°C to 24°C.
Public Advisory: Stay Safe and Follow Official Guidelines
In response to the volatile weather, district administrations and disaster management authorities have urged people to follow IMD advisories strictly. People are advised to:
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Avoid venturing outside during thunderstorms.
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Stay away from tall trees, open fields, and electrical poles.
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Disconnect electrical appliances during lightning activity.
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Ensure elderly and children remain indoors.
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Farmers should take precautionary steps to protect their crops.
Lightning Safety: Why Bihar Needs Urgent Awareness Campaigns
Bihar’s vulnerability to lightning-related incidents remains a critical concern. Experts cite low public awareness, especially in rural areas, as a major reason behind the high fatality rate during such weather events.
Community-based awareness programs, school-level safety training, and SMS-based weather alert systems can potentially save hundreds of lives each year. It is essential for both government and non-government organizations to focus on proactive measures rather than reactive disaster responses.
Impact on Agriculture and Daily Life
The sudden spike in rainfall and wind activity has started to affect standing crops, especially in north and east Bihar. Farmers are reporting lodging of wheat and maize crops, which could directly impact yields.
On the urban front, waterlogging, power cuts, and traffic congestion have already begun surfacing in cities like Patna, Muzaffarpur, and Darbhanga.
Looking Ahead: Will Relief Come After April 15?
While the IMD suggests some stabilization of weather after April 15, isolated thunderstorms may still persist. Experts believe that this pattern may gradually transition into the monsoon onset phase if humidity and atmospheric pressure trends continue.
The current weather instability could also be linked to climate anomalies like El Niño and rising oceanic temperatures, which are known to affect seasonal rainfall distribution across the Indian subcontinent.
The current weather condition in Bihar is a clear reminder of the increasing unpredictability of seasonal cycles. With more than 150% above-average rainfall, violent winds, and the constant threat of lightning, residents must remain alert and informed.
KKNLive urges all citizens to follow official weather updates, prioritize safety, and report any local damage or emergencies to their respective district authorities.
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