Bihar is currently experiencing two completely different faces of weather at the same time. One part of the state is reeling under scorching sun and a brutal heatwave, while the other has been hit by heavy rain and strong squalls. On Thursday, the meteorological centre issued an orange heatwave alert for 14 districts, even as several districts in north and east Bihar were warned of heavy rainfall.
Heatwave Grips South and Central Bihar
In the central and southern districts, blistering sunshine and hot westerly winds have made conditions extremely uncomfortable. Over the past 24 hours, Kaimur was the hottest district, with the maximum temperature climbing to 42.2 degrees Celsius. Five other districts also recorded the mercury crossing the 40 degree mark.
The 14 districts placed under the orange alert are Patna, Gaya, Buxar, Bhojpur, Rohtas, Kaimur, Aurangabad, Arwal, Jehanabad, Nalanda, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai, Nawada and Begusarai.
In the state capital Patna, the temperature on Thursday is expected to hover around 40 degrees Celsius, with humidity troubling people throughout the day. There could be some relief by evening or night, when partial clouds and light drizzle are likely.
Storm and Heavy Rain Warning for Seemanchal
In contrast, the weather has changed completely across eastern and northern Bihar as the monsoon draws closer. The weather department has issued a heavy rain alert for Madhubani, Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Purnia and Katihar. Alongside this, dusty winds blowing at 60 km per hour and the risk of lightning have been flagged across the whole of Bihar.
Why Heat and Rain Are Striking Together
According to weather scientists, the northern limit of the monsoon has now reached very close to Bihar. Moist winds arriving from the Bay of Bengal are increasing humidity in the air, leading to cloud formation and rainfall. At the same time, the effect of strong sunshine and westerly winds still persists. This is why the state is witnessing the unusual combination of a heatwave and rain occurring at once.
What Lies Ahead
The monsoon is expected to become fully active over Bihar between the last week of June and the first week of July, bringing plenty of rain. For now, given the shifting weather, people have been advised to stay cautious and to avoid stepping out unnecessarily during the afternoon.
