Pre-Monsoon Rain to Hit East India from March 26: Bihar, Bengal, Odisha on Alert

By: Mahesh Palawat | Edited By: Arti Kumari
Mar 25, 2026, 1:45 PM
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Representational Image: AI-Skymet

Key Takeaways:

  • Pre-monsoon rain and thunderstorms will impact East India from March 26 onward.
  • Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha will see widespread activity between March 26 evening and March 27.
  • Strong winds and thunderstorms may cause localized damage, especially to crops.
  • The spell will bring a noticeable drop in temperatures and relief from heat across the region.

A fresh spell of pre-monsoon rain and thunderstorms is set to impact East India, bringing relief from the ongoing rise in temperatures across the region. States including East Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha are likely to witness a noticeable change in weather conditions over the next few days.

The upcoming weather activity is being driven by a series of systems moving from west to east, a typical pattern during the pre-monsoon season. Two back-to-back Western Disturbances—expected around March 26 and March 28—will play a key role in shaping this weather transition. These systems are likely to induce cyclonic circulations over the northern plains, particularly around Central Pakistan and adjoining North Rajasthan, gradually pushing the rain belt eastward.

Rain Timeline and Affected Regions

Rainfall activity is expected to begin over eastern parts of Uttar Pradesh on March 26. As the system progresses, weather conditions will intensify and spread across East India. By the evening of March 26, extending into March 27, widespread rain and thunderstorms are likely to cover Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha, marking the peak phase of this weather activity.

Intensity and Weather Conditions

The upcoming spell is expected to bring moderate to widespread rainfall across the region, with isolated heavy spells possible, particularly over parts of Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. The weather activity will be accompanied by strong gusty winds, thunderstorms, and lightning. In some areas, short-duration but intense spells may also occur, increasing the impact locally.

Impact on Agriculture and Daily Life

There is a possibility of localized damage to standing crops due to gusty winds and thunderstorms, especially in exposed agricultural regions. Sudden weather changes and strong winds may pose challenges for farmers and outdoor activities, and caution is advised during this period.

Relief from Heat and Positive Outcomes

Despite the risk of weather-related disruptions, this spell is expected to bring notable relief from rising temperatures. Daytime temperatures are likely to dip across East India, easing heat stress and improving overall comfort levels. Additionally, the rainfall will enhance soil moisture, which will be beneficial for upcoming agricultural activities. Atmospheric conditions are also expected to become more pleasant for a few days following the rain.

Overall Outlook

Rainfall activity over East India is expected to be short-lived but impactful. Driven by active Western Disturbances and induced circulations, this spell will temporarily ease rising temperatures while bringing typical pre-monsoon weather conditions to the region. While localized damage due to strong winds cannot be ruled out, the overall impact is likely to remain beneficial, particularly in terms of temperature moderation and improved soil moisture.

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Mahesh Palawat
Vice President of Meteorology & Climate Change
Mr. Palawat, Vice President of Meteorology & Climate Change, is a former Air Force boxer and a passionate weather enthusiast. Dedicated to tracking and predicting weather for the benefit of farmers and the general public, he has been an integral part of Skymet since its inception.
FAQ

Rain is expected to begin over East Uttar Pradesh on March 26 and spread across Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha by evening.

Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha are likely to see the most widespread rain and thunderstorms between March 26 and 27.

Yes, the rainfall will bring a drop in temperatures and provide relief from the prevailing heat conditions.

Disclaimer: This content is based on meteorological interpretation and climatological datasets assessed by Skymet’s forecasting team. While we strive to maintain scientific accuracy, weather patterns may evolve due to dynamic atmospheric conditions. This assessment is intended for informational purposes and should not be considered an absolute or guaranteed prediction.

Skymet is India’s most accurate private weather forecasting and climate intelligence company, providing reliable weather data, monsoon updates, and agri-risk management solutions across the country.