Patna: The Meteorological Department on Monday issued a weather alert covering 17 districts of Bihar, warning residents and authorities to brace for strong winds, lightning and intermittent light rainfall over the next 72 hours. The advisory comes as parts of the state continue to record below-normal rainfall this season.
Districts under warning and expected conditions
The districts named in the alert include East Champaran, West Champaran, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Gopalganj, Saran, Siwan, Buxar, Bhojpur, Arwal, Aurangabad, Rohtas and Kaimur. The weather office forecast winds of 30–40 kmph in these areas, accompanied by lightning activity and isolated light rains.
- Winds: 30–40 kmph in alerted districts.
- Precipitation: light rain at isolated places; intermittent in some regions.
- Alert level: Yellow for about half the state on September 15; expanded rainfall warning on September 16 for most districts.
72-hour outlook and regional variation
The IMD issued a 72-hour outlook indicating that conditions would vary across Bihar. The agency specifically flagged the Seemanchal region — which includes the state's northeastern districts — for likely rainfall on September 15. Light rains were also considered possible at isolated places in North Bihar and the southeastern parts of the state.
For September 16, the forecast extended a rainfall warning over almost the entire state, while authorities can expect comparatively normal weather only in Buxar, Bhojpur, Arwal, Aurangabad, Rohtas and Kaimur according to the outlook.
Why rainfall remains below normal
Meteorologists attributed the current rainfall deficit in Bihar to a low‑pressure area that developed over central India earlier this month. That synoptic feature has disrupted the usual monsoon currents, producing uneven distribution of rainfall across the state and leaving many districts drier than average.
| Parameter | Forecast / Detail |
|---|---|
| Districts warned | 17 districts including East Champaran, Madhubani, Saran, Rohtas |
| Wind speed | 30–40 kmph |
| Alert level | Yellow for ~half the state on Sept 15; wider warning on Sept 16 |
| Cause | Low‑pressure area over Central India causing rainfall deficit |
Local impact and precautions
The warning is significant for farmers, transport services and local administrations. Strong winds and lightning can damage standing crops, affect power and communication lines, and create road‑safety hazards. Given that many districts are still experiencing hot and humid conditions, intermittent rains accompanied by gusty winds may also increase risks of localized flooding where drainage is poor.
The Meteorological Department has advised residents to take routine precautions during adverse weather: secure loose structures, avoid open fields during lightning, and exercise caution while travelling, especially for vulnerable road stretches and riverine areas. Authorities were asked to keep an eye on water levels in local drains and river channels and to be ready for quick response in case of localized waterlogging.
What residents should watch
- Monitor local weather bulletins and district administration advisories regularly.
- Farmers should protect fragile crops and movable farm assets from strong winds.
- Avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorms; unplug sensitive electrical appliances to guard against surges.
State disaster management and district authorities normally coordinate with the Meteorological Department when alerts are issued; the current advisory is expected to prompt local monitoring of vulnerable spots. With the monsoon behaving unevenly this season, departments responsible for roads, power and agriculture will be watching developments closely and updating their contingency plans as required.
Further updates are likely from the IMD as the low‑pressure area over central India evolves. Residents in the affected districts are advised to follow instructions from local administrations and take common‑sense safety measures.
Reporting from Patna.
