IMD Issues Orange Alert for Severe Weather Across Bihar
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Patna has escalated weather warnings by issuing an orange alert on Friday, forecasting hazardous conditions for several districts in Bihar. The alert specifically highlights the risk of gusty winds reaching speeds of 50-60 kilometers per hour, accompanied by hailstorms and lightning, set to impact regions including Aurangabad, Gaya, Jamui, Nalanda, Sheikhpura, and Sitamarhi on Saturday.
Extended Impact and Safety Advisories
Similar severe weather patterns, characterized by high-velocity winds and thunderstorms, are anticipated in Patna, Bhojpur, Begusarai, and Bhagalpur. Additionally, districts such as Darbhanga, Madhubani, and Muzaffarpur remain under close watch for potential high-speed winds and lightning activity. In response, the disaster management department has strongly advised residents in affected areas, including Saran and Vaishali, to stay indoors as moderate to heavy rainfall continues to sweep across the state.
Sanjay Kumar, a meteorologist at IMD Patna, explained the meteorological context, stating, "The pre-monsoon season is particularly conducive to hailstorms, especially over the northern districts of Bihar. This is a common phenomenon that often brings severe thunderstorms and gusty winds." He further elaborated on the agricultural implications, noting, "The size of hail depends directly on the storm's intensity. Such events can cause significant damage to crops due to the forceful impact of hail, which is particularly detrimental for farmers as rabi crops are nearing readiness during this period."
Weather System Movement and Forecast Details
Regarding the trajectory of the weather system, Kumar indicated, "It originated from the western side, but if the intensity escalates further, it could extend towards Banka as well." He added, "The forecast is expected to persist until Saturday, although the intensity is projected to diminish. We urge people to avoid outdoor activities and seek shelter under solid roofs to prevent injuries from hail. These are short-term weather conditions that are intense temporarily but tend to subside quickly."
However, according to the IMD bulletin released on Friday, additional weather warnings have been issued for hailstorms and thunderstorms or lightning in specific districts such as Araria, Banka, Bhagalpur, Katihar, Kishanganj, and Supaul. Similar alerts extend to the north-west, north-central, south-west, and south-central districts of Bihar, indicating widespread weather disturbances.
Underlying Meteorological Factors
This severe weather outbreak is attributed to a western disturbance currently moving through the middle atmosphere, coupled with an active cyclonic circulation at lower levels over Gangetic West Bengal and Bangladesh. Temperature records from Friday show the lowest minimum temperature at 17.5 degrees Celsius in Rohtas, while the highest maximum temperature reached 38 degrees Celsius in Kaimur.
Looking ahead, maximum temperatures across Bihar are forecast to drop by 3-5 degrees Celsius over the next 48 hours, with minimum temperatures expected to decrease by 1-4 degrees Celsius during the same timeframe. Following this brief cooling period, both daytime and nighttime temperatures are predicted to gradually rise over the subsequent three days, marking a shift in weather patterns.
The IMD's proactive warnings aim to mitigate risks to public safety and agriculture, emphasizing the importance of preparedness during this volatile pre-monsoon season.
