Is the Monsoon Set to Hit Bihar Within 48 Hours?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Monsoon arrival brings relief from heat.
- Orange alert issued for multiple districts.
- Severe lightning strikes have resulted in fatalities.
- Residents advised to take safety precautions.
- Consistent rainfall expected post-monsoon arrival.
Patna, June 17 (NationPress) After enduring days of intense heat and high humidity, residents of Bihar can finally look forward to some relief, as the southwest monsoon is predicted to make its entrance through Purnea and Kishanganj within the next 48 hours, as reported by the Meteorological Centre in Patna.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for multiple districts in North Bihar, cautioning against heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning.
More than 20 districts, including Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur, Munger, East and West Champaran, Siwan, Saran, and Katihar, are expected to experience light to moderate rainfall in the upcoming days.
Specifically, heavy rain warnings have been issued for Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Supaul, Araria, and Kishanganj, where thunderstorms with winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph are anticipated.
Recent rainfall recorded over the past 24 hours further substantiates the monsoon's arrival.
Significant rainfall figures include Bikramganj (Rohtas) -- 30 mm; Raghunathpur (Siwan) -- 25.6 mm; and Hathwa (Gopalganj) -- 20.8 mm.
Despite the rain, Chhapra remains the hottest location at 41.1 degrees Celsius, although temperatures have slightly decreased in around 20 districts.
Tragically, the weather shift has resulted in misfortune. Severe lightning strikes on Monday led to the deaths of 14 individuals and injured over a dozen in Buxar, Katihar, Kaimur, West Champaran, and Bhagalpur.
Most of the victims were either farming or seeking refuge under trees during the storm.
The Disaster Management Department has released advisories urging individuals to steer clear of open spaces and avoid taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms or lightning.
The IMD has also warned of thunderstorms and gusty winds on June 17 in the districts of West Champaran, Siwan, Gopalganj, Kishanganj, Katihar, Bhagalpur, Banka, Nawada, Gaya, and Rohtas.
Residents are advised to remain indoors during inclement weather, avoid standing near electric poles or trees, and stay informed about local weather updates.
With the intensification of easterly, moisture-laden winds, the IMD anticipates that the monsoon will become fully active across Bihar by June 17-18, bringing steady rainfall and a significant temperature drop throughout the state.