Patna: The state is likely to get relief from soaring temperatures as the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Patna, on Sunday issued warnings for rain and thunderstorms in several districts over the next few days. A yellow alert is in place till April 30 for gusty winds, lightning and rainfall, mainly in north-central and north-east Bihar.A cyclonic circulation over eastern Uttar Pradesh and northeast Jharkhand, along with a subtropical westerly jet stream, is driving moisture into the state.Weather officials have forecast a slight fall in temperatures. Maximum temperatures are expected to drop by 3–4°C across many areas over the next 72 to 96 hours, while minimum temperatures may fall by 1–3°C in the next 48 to 72 hours. On Sunday, Forbesganj in Araria recorded the lowest minimum at 21°C, while Bhabua in Kaimur recorded a high of 43.5°C. The incoming systems are expected to gradually ease heatwave conditions. Residents in affected districts have been advised to stay indoors during thunderstorms to avoid lightning.In the last 24 hours, gusty winds of 50-60kmph, heavy rain and thunderstorms with lightning affected Araria, Madhepura, Purnia, Supaul and Kishanganj, which received excess rainfall. North-central districts also witnessed winds of 40-50 kmph and thunderstorms, while heatwave conditions persisted in Aurangabad, Bhabua, Buxar, Gaya and Rohtas.Meanwhile, following orders of the Patna district magistrate, 387 drinking water stations have been set up across 17 urban bodies and 26 blocks. Free water is being provided at intersections, markets and bus stands for laborers and commuters. Officials said there is no drinking water crisis in the district. The public health engineering department has deployed 46 repair teams and opened control rooms for handpump maintenance. Officials have been asked to monitor groundwater levels and deploy tankers where required. All schools, anganwadis and panchayats have been directed to maintain water supply.
