Why Are Orange and Yellow Alerts Issued in Bihar for Storms and Lightning Strikes?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Orange and yellow alerts have been issued for storms and lightning in Bihar.
- Residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid travel.
- Strong winds of 50 to 60 km/h are expected.
- Emergency response efforts are underway across affected districts.
- Chief Minister has announced relief payments for victims' families.
Patna, April 28 (NationPress) The Meteorological Centre in Patna has issued orange and yellow alerts for rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning across 36 districts of Bihar in the upcoming two days.
The weather has shifted dramatically amidst the ongoing heatwave that has been affecting the state since Sunday.
According to the Meteorological Department, strong winds are anticipated, reaching speeds of 50 to 60 km per hour during this timeframe.
Residents are urged to remain indoors and take precautions during these severe weather conditions.
On Sunday night, tragic incidents resulted in the deaths of two individuals in Patna and Hajipur due to lightning strikes, while five others were injured due to strong winds and rain in Patna, Hajipur, and Bagaha. The injured parties have been rushed to local medical facilities.
In Valmiki Nagar, two people sustained injuries after a large tree fell during the storm, leading to a significant road incident.
Weather disruptions are expected to persist until April 29, with a slight decrease in wind strength thereafter. However, rainfall and thunderstorms are likely to continue, especially in the districts of Banka, Bhagalpur, and Khagaria.
The Meteorological Department has advised people to avoid unnecessary travel during storms and to steer clear of agricultural areas, particularly in Patna, Bhojpur, Arwal, Jehanabad, Gaya, Nalanda, West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Aurangabad, Jamui, and Munger districts.
District administrations are on high alert, with directives to provide immediate relief and emergency support as required.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has expressed profound condolences for the loss of lives and has directed officials to deliver an ex gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh to the families of the deceased. He has also instructed district officials to evaluate crop damage and devise relief strategies.
Authorities are actively monitoring the evolving situation and coordinating emergency response initiatives across the affected regions.