A dramatic weather U-turn in Bihar has prompted the IMD to sound a red alert across 16 districts. Expect intense thunderstorms, heavy showers, lightning strikes, and winds raging at 50-60 km/h in Araria, Begusarai, Darbhanga, Katihar, Khagaria, Kishanganj, Madhepura, Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, Purnia, Saharsa, Samastipur, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Supaul, and Vaishali over the coming day.
Friday’s hail and gusts offered a brief respite from heatwaves but wreaked havoc. Muzaffarpur’s afternoon skies darkened rapidly, unleashing dust-laden winds, thunderclaps, and rain across Sakra, Motipur, Kanti, and beyond. Vaishali’s Goraul block endured the worst with violent storms forcing people indoors. Hail pelted Bettiah and Bagaha in West Champaran too.
Safety first: IMD advises rushing to solid structures, steering clear of open areas, trees, poles, fields, and ponds. ‘Lightning can kill instantly—don’t risk it,’ warn experts. Farmers, hold off on fieldwork.
This follows prior yellow and orange warnings, with temperatures plunging 3-5°C amid the turmoil. Bihar’s administration mobilizes resources, stressing vigilance. As forecasts predict escalation, residents must prioritize life-saving measures to avert tragedy in these storm-prone zones.