The state of Bihar continues to face the dual challenge of heavy rainfall and widespread flooding. Several districts are already reeling under waterlogging and river overflow, while the weather department has predicted further showers in different parts of the state. Residents are being advised to carry umbrellas or raincoats when stepping out, as clouds may burst at any time. With rivers like the Ganga, Kosi, and Gandak overflowing, thousands of families remain affected by floods, adding to the misery caused by relentless rain.

Heavy Rain Predicted in North-West Bihar

The India Meteorological Department has forecast significant rainfall in several north-western districts of Bihar on August 13. According to the latest update, showers are expected in West Champaran, East Champaran, Siwan, Saran, and Gopalganj. Alongside these regions, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Vaishali, Sheohar, and Samastipur are also likely to witness moderate to heavy rainfall during the day.

Residents of these areas are already experiencing waterlogging in low-lying regions. Farmers in several blocks have reported damage to standing crops due to continuous moisture and lack of sunlight. The district administrations are keeping a close watch on the rising water levels in rivers and streams.

Rain Likely in North-East Bihar

The north-eastern districts of Bihar, including Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Madhepura, Saharsa, Purnea, and Katihar, are also expected to receive showers across most parts. This region has been vulnerable to flooding due to its proximity to rivers that receive water from Nepal.

Villages located near embankments are witnessing seepage, and in some areas, roads have been submerged. Relief and rescue teams are on standby, but access to several hamlets remains a challenge. Local markets have reported a drop in footfall as residents prefer to remain indoors during persistent downpours.

Showers Expected in South-West Bihar

The south-western belt of Bihar, comprising Buxar, Bhojpur, Rohtas, Bhabhua, Aurangabad, and Arwal, is expected to experience rainfall in some locations. While these districts have not seen severe flooding yet, the saturated ground has made agricultural activity difficult.

Road connectivity in certain rural stretches has been partially affected due to muddy and slippery surfaces. The administration has urged people to travel only when necessary and to keep track of weather advisories.

Weather in Patna and Surrounding Districts

The capital city, Patna, is also likely to experience rain in a few areas today. According to the forecast, districts such as Jehanabad, Lakhisarai, Begusarai, Sheikhpura, Nalanda, and Nawada will also see showers. In Patna, cloudy skies and intermittent rain have brought some relief from the heat but increased humidity levels.

Bhagalpur district is grappling with severe flood conditions, with water entering several residential colonies. Dr. Birendra Kumar, a weather scientist at Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, has indicated that there is a possibility of showers with thundercloud development during the day. He added that Thursday and Friday are likely to remain partly cloudy, with heat and humidity persisting in several regions.

Meanwhile, the meteorological department has also predicted rainfall in Banka, Jamui, Munger, and Khagaria. These regions have already been facing flood-related issues, and more rain may worsen the situation.

Rainfall to Continue for the Next Few Days

Weather experts have indicated that the current spell of rain is likely to continue in various parts of Bihar. Showers are predicted for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday across multiple districts. On Wednesday, heavy rain is expected at one or two locations in East Champaran, Saran, Samastipur, Khagaria, and Kishanganj.

Thursday’s forecast includes possible showers in Kaimur, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Gaya, and Nawada. The meteorological office has warned that on August 15, several eastern districts of Bihar may experience thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds.

Flood Situation Worsens in Several Districts

The continuous rainfall has intensified the flood situation in many parts of Bihar. The Ganga is flowing above the danger mark in Patna, Bhagalpur, and Khagaria. The Kosi river has breached embankments in some areas, leading to the evacuation of hundreds of villagers. In the Gandak basin, high water discharge from Valmikinagar barrage has submerged large swathes of farmland.

Authorities are working to supply food packets, drinking water, and essential medicines to stranded families. Temporary relief camps have been set up in schools and community halls. However, health concerns are rising, with reports of waterborne diseases like diarrhoea and skin infections.

Impact on Agriculture and Economy

The prolonged wet spell is expected to have a significant impact on Bihar’s agrarian economy. Paddy fields in several districts are waterlogged, delaying transplantation and affecting crop health. Maize and vegetable growers are also facing losses due to excess moisture and fungal diseases.

Transporting agricultural produce to markets has become a challenge due to waterlogged roads and damaged bridges. In flood-hit areas, dairy farmers are struggling to find fodder for their cattle. Experts fear that if the rains continue beyond mid-August, it may lead to a decline in overall yield, affecting both farmers and consumers.

Government Response and Preparedness

The Bihar State Disaster Management Authority has activated control rooms in all districts to monitor the flood and weather situation. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force have been deployed in vulnerable areas. Boats are being used to evacuate residents from inundated villages.

The health department has issued advisories to prevent outbreaks of vector-borne diseases. Awareness campaigns are being conducted through local radio stations and community networks to inform people about safety measures during heavy rain and flooding.

Outlook for Independence Day

As Bihar prepares for Independence Day celebrations, weather conditions remain uncertain. The meteorological department has advised organisers to make contingency plans for outdoor events, especially in districts under a thunderstorm alert. Authorities are expected to keep a close watch on the situation and issue timely updates to ensure public safety.

Residents across Bihar are being urged to stay alert to changing weather patterns. People in flood-prone areas should keep emergency kits ready and avoid venturing near swollen rivers or drainage channels. Farmers have been advised to drain excess water from their fields wherever possible to protect standing crops.

The persistent rainfall has once again highlighted the state’s vulnerability to monsoon-related disasters. While timely alerts and improved rescue infrastructure have helped mitigate some risks, the scale of the challenge remains high. With several more days of rain predicted, the coming week will be critical for both disaster management teams and the people of Bihar.