Cyclone Arnab Triggers Rain and High Winds Across Bihar

Cyclonic storm Arnab is making its presence felt in Bihar, bringing rain to Patna and cloudy skies to Buxar and several other districts. According to the Meteorological Department, wet weather, strong winds, and lightning are set to continue across the state from October 28 through November 1, with 13 districts placed on alert.

Peak Impact

The storm will peak on October 29 and 30, bringing heavy to very heavy rainfall to select areas. Winds are expected to reach speeds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour during this period. The system originated over the west-central Bay of Bengal and was projected to cross the coast near Yanam between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh on the morning of October 28. At landfall, maximum sustained wind speeds were expected to range from 125 to 135 kilometres per hour, with gusts reaching up to 150 kilometres per hour.

Advisories

Continuous rain and gusty winds pose a threat to standing crops, orchards, and fruit trees including banana, papaya, drumstick, and mango. Farmers have been advised to move harvested produce to safe locations and clear drainage channels from their fields. Residents are urged to stay away from open fields, trees, weak structures, and electricity poles during thunderstorms.

Context

Tropical cyclones originating in the Bay of Bengal frequently affect eastern and coastal regions of India during the post-monsoon months, bringing sudden changes in weather. Local meteorological centres issue timely alerts to help communities and farmers prepare for heavy downpours and potential crop damage.