Bihar Faces Weather Turmoil: Red Alert Issued for 16 Districts After Hailstorm
Synopsis
A sudden weather change has hit Bihar, leading to a Red Alert from the IMD for 16 districts due to expected severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. Residents are urged to take precautions to ensure safety amidst the changing climate.
Key Takeaways
Red Alert issued for 16 districts in Bihar due to severe weather.
Expect thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds.
Residents must follow safety guidelines to avoid risks.
Significant damage reported to crops from hailstorms.
Temperature drop of 3-5°C observed across the region.
Patna, March 20 (NationPress) The weather in Bihar has experienced a dramatic shift, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a 'Red Alert' for heavy showers, thunderstorms, and lightning across 16 districts in the state.
The IMD forecasts severe weather patterns, including intense thunderstorms, lightning strikes, heavy precipitation, and strong winds reaching 50–60 km/h, over the next 24 hours in several areas. The districts affected include Araria, Begusarai, Darbhanga, Katihar, Khagaria, Kishanganj, Madhepura, Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, Purnea, Saharsa, Samastipur, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Supaul, and Vaishali.
Residents are advised to stay vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines issued by the Disaster Management Department.
Officials recommend that anyone outdoors should seek immediate shelter in a robust structure, avoid standing beneath trees or near power lines, and steer clear of open fields and water bodies. Farmers are advised to refrain from entering their fields until conditions improve.
With lightning and strong winds posing considerable dangers, it is imperative to take precautionary measures seriously to prevent injuries.
On Friday, a sudden weather change swept through Bihar, bringing rain, strong winds, and hailstorms to various districts, providing temporary relief from the escalating heat but also causing damage in certain locations.
Districts like Muzaffarpur and Vaishali experienced rain accompanied by gusty winds, with hailstorms reported in multiple areas.
The IMD had previously issued 'Yellow' and 'Orange' alerts, cautioning residents to exercise vigilance.
In Muzaffarpur, the weather changed swiftly within hours of the alert.
By afternoon, dark clouds gathered, followed by dust-laden winds, thunder, and light rain across both urban and rural areas, including Sakra, Motipur, and Kanti.
This abrupt change led to a noticeable temperature drop, with estimates indicating a decline of 3-5°C in maximum temperatures, bringing some relief before the peak summer season.
However, the situation was more challenging in parts of Vaishali district. In the Goraul block, strong storms with heavy rain and hailstones forced residents to stay indoors.
Reports from Mohammadpur Pojha village reveal that large hailstones inflicted significant damage on standing Rabi crops, causing concern for farmers.
Similar weather phenomena, including hailstorms, were also observed in Bettiah and Bagaha in West Champaran district.
Point of View
As the IMD issues a Red Alert for 16 districts. The changing climate is impacting residents, and adherence to safety measures is crucial to mitigate risks associated with thunderstorms and hailstorms. It reflects a growing concern for public safety amidst unpredictable weather patterns.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What districts in Bihar are under Red Alert?
The districts under Red Alert include Araria, Begusarai, Darbhanga, Katihar, Khagaria, Kishanganj, Madhepura, Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, Purnea, Saharsa, Samastipur, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Supaul, and Vaishali.
What safety measures should residents follow?
Residents are advised to seek shelter in sturdy buildings, avoid standing under trees or near electric poles, and stay away from open fields and water bodies.
What weather conditions can be expected?
Severe weather activity, including thunderstorms, lightning, heavy rainfall, and winds of 50–60 km/h, is expected over the next 24 hours.
How has the weather affected local agriculture?
Large hailstones have caused significant damage to standing Rabi crops, particularly in areas like Mohammadpur Pojha village, raising concerns for farmers.
What alerts were issued prior to the Red Alert?
The IMD had previously issued Yellow and Orange alerts, warning residents to remain cautious about the changing weather conditions.
