As for Bihar, the state did receive moderate showers around July 23. But these showers were unable to provide any significant relief from the hot and humid conditions prevailing in the region. Also, rains in Bihar during this period failed to benefit the crops too.
Good rains were observed in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in the month of June. But even then, Bihar remained deficit in terms of rainfall received. On June 30, East Uttar Pradesh (UP) was observing a deficit of -12%, West UP was running positive at +4%, and Bihar was facing a deficit of -28%. A month later, till July 29, East UP was observing a deficit of -30%, West UP a deficit of -14%, and Bihar was maintaining a deficit of -29%.
For the last one week or so, the axis of Monsoon trough was running from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and all the way to West Bengal. It did oscillate from North to South but remained around Central India only. The reason behind this were the two systems brewing on either side of the trough. A deep depression settling over Madhya Pradesh and adjoining Rajasthan, and a low pressure (which has now become a cyclone) over northeast Bay of Bengal. These two systems did not allow the axis of Monsoon trough to shift towards the northern parts of the country.
But now, the deep depression over Rajasthan has weakened and is becoming insignificant. Also, a fresh Western Disturbance (WD) is approaching the plains of North India. Thus, the western part of axis of Monsoon trough has moved northward and cyclonic storm Komen is also ready to cross into Bangladesh.
To read more about Cyclone Komen, click here
Now the axis of Monsoon trough combined with the cyclonic circulation will increase rainfall activity over West Bengal, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. Moderate to heavy rains are expected in Bihar for next 2 to 3 days as the axis of Monsoon trough is likely to run close to the foothills of Himalayas. As a result, the Terai regions of Uttar Pradesh will get good rains for next 24 hours. Thereafter, the rain belt will cover most parts of Uttar Pradesh. This activity is likely to continue till August 4 in Uttar Pradesh and till August 3 in Bihar. These rains will benefit Kharif crops and will also help cover up the rain deficit in this part of the country to some extent.
(Featured Image Credit: slate.com)