Bihar Faces Severe Flooding Despite 27% Rainfall Deficit
Bihar Faces Severe Flooding Despite 27% Rainfall Deficit
IN · Published Sep 17, 2026
Bihar is experiencing significant flooding despite receiving 27% below-normal rainfall between 1 June and 8 September
The state recorded 601.1 mm of rainfall during this period, yet approximately 49.36 lakh people across 15 districts have been affected by floods as of 14 September. The situation is attributed to intense localised rainfall events, such as 214.92 mm in East Champaran and 154.55 mm in Sitamarhi, combined with high river discharge from upstream regions, including Nepal and other Indian states. The Ganga River reached record levels at monitoring stations in Patna and Bhagalpur, exacerbating the flooding. Backwater effects from tributaries like the Gandak and Punpun further worsened the situation, as water could not drain efficiently into the already swollen Ganga.

Impact & Risks

The floods have disrupted the lives of nearly five million people, affecting homes, livelihoods, and essential services. Low-lying areas and floodplains have been particularly vulnerable due to Bihar's flat topography and sediment-rich rivers. Roads, drinking water sources, and agricultural fields have been inundated, isolating villages and impacting access to healthcare, education, and markets. The high population density in flood-prone areas has magnified the humanitarian impact, with many families facing displacement, loss of crops, and contamination of water supplies.

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