A significant shift in weather patterns is currently underway in Bihar. After nearly three weeks of stagnant monsoon conditions, which resulted in intense heat and oppressive humidity across the state, relief appears to be on the horizon. The weather department has issued an alert for thunderstorms and rainfall today across 24 districts of the state. During this period, wind speeds could potentially reach up to 40 kilometers per hour. In the state capital Patna and 14 other districts, the sky is expected to remain overcast throughout the day.
Reasons for the Temporary Dry Spell
According to weather scientists, a low-pressure area has formed over the Bay of Bengal, near the Odisha coast. This meteorological system has caused the monsoonal winds to shift southward. Furthermore, the lack of any strong western disturbance in the vicinity of Bihar, coupled with the absence of other significant weather systems, meant that monsoon activity remained weak, leading to a prolonged interruption in the rainfall cycle.
Red Alert for Heavy Rainfall Until July 12
In view of the current situation, the weather department has released a crucial update. A seven-day red alert for heavy rainfall has been issued for the entire state, effective until July 12. There is a high probability of widespread heavy rain across the state within the next 48 hours. Weather experts anticipate that the monsoon will gain further momentum over the next 7 to 10 days, bringing much-needed relief to the residents from the stifling heat. Prior to this shift, the state was experiencing conditions akin to a drought. Official data indicates that by July 6, the state should have received 230.1 mm of rainfall. In contrast, only 103 mm was recorded, which represents a deficit of approximately 52 to 55 percent compared to the normal range.
Districts Under Alert
The yellow alert issued for today covers two dozen districts. These include West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Siwan, and Sheohar. Additionally, alerts have been sounded for Sitamarhi, Muzaffarpur, Saran, Vaishali, Madhubani, Darbhanga, and Samastipur. The districts of North and East Bihar, namely Supaul, Saharsa, Madhepura, Khagaria, Munger, Jamui, Banka, Bhagalpur, Katihar, Purnia, Araria, and Kishanganj, are also expected to witness thunderstorms and rain.
Experts indicate that while the monsoon might remain somewhat weak for the next two days, the moisture levels in the air will remain quite high. Due to rising temperatures and high humidity, the heat index will remain elevated, making the weather feel significantly hotter than the actual recorded temperature. However, this period is expected to be followed by substantial rainfall, which will eventually make the overall climate pleasant.
