Monsoon Mayhem In Bihar: Patna Drenched As Yellow Alert Sweeps Across State

The monsoon has returned with full force across Bihar, unleashing heavy rains, thunderstorms, and rising river levels that have disrupted daily life and prompted the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a statewide Yellow Alert. Patna, the state capital, has been experiencing continuous rainfall since Sunday night, with intermittent showers intensifying through Monday morning. The alert, which remains in effect until August 29, signals the potential for hazardous weather conditions and urges residents to exercise caution.

Key Highlights From The IMD Advisory

- Yellow Alert issued for all districts in Bihar, warning of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning  
- Winds expected to reach speeds of 30–40 kmph in southern districts  
- Specific warnings for Gaya, Nawada, and Jamui, where heavier rainfall is forecast  
- Light to moderate rainfall with thunder and lightning predicted in Patna, Siwan, Saran, Samastipur, Vaishali, Bhojpur, Arwal, Jehanabad, Nalanda, Nawada, and Begusarai  

Impact On Patna And Surrounding Areas

- Patna recorded over 15 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours, with Sampatchak logging the highest at 25.2 mm  
- Cloudy skies and high humidity have added to commuter discomfort, with waterlogging reported in low-lying areas  
- Temperatures in Patna hovered around 33.1°C, slightly above normal, contributing to muggy conditions  
- The city remains under watch for further thunderstorms and isolated heavy showers through the week  

Flood Risk And River Swelling

- A sudden rise in the Karmanasha River has led to flooding in Kaimur district, submerging the Durgavati–Kakrait road  
- Police sealed the road near Nuaon to prevent accidents, redirecting traffic via alternative routes  
- Water levels in the Falgu River (Gaya), Son River (Jehanabad and Bhojpur), and other tributaries have surged due to rainfall in neighboring Jharkhand  
- Local administrations have issued advisories against venturing near riverbanks and flood-prone zones  

District-Wise Rainfall Snapshot

- Katihar recorded the highest rainfall at 139.6 mm, followed by Sheikhpura (78.2 mm), Nalanda (66.8 mm), and Banka (62.6 mm)  
- Other notable figures include Siwan (60.6 mm), Muzaffarpur (46.2 mm), Nawada (46 mm), Saharsa (45.8 mm), and West Champaran (44.4 mm)  
- Rainfall has been widespread, with most districts receiving between 30 mm and 60 mm over the weekend  

Precautionary Measures And Public Advisory

- IMD has urged residents to avoid open areas during thunderstorms and to stay indoors during peak rainfall hours  
- Local authorities are monitoring water levels and drainage systems to prevent urban flooding  
- Emergency services, including Dial-112 units, have been deployed in vulnerable zones for rapid response  
- Schools and public institutions have been advised to remain alert and adjust schedules based on weather developments  

Conclusion

With the monsoon now fully active across Bihar, the coming days are expected to bring continued rainfall, fluctuating temperatures, and heightened flood risks. Patna and other districts must brace for potential disruptions, while authorities work to manage safety and infrastructure challenges. The Yellow Alert serves as a reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the importance of preparedness during peak monsoon season.

Sources: IANS, Sakshi Post, Patna Press, Times of India, News4Nation.