Thunderstorm-induced damage in Nalanda, Bihar, India: insights from field surveys and observational data

On April 10, 2025, a severe convective thunderstorm struck multiple districts of Bihar, India, causing significant wind-induced damage and fatalities from strong gusts and lightning. This study focuses on three of the worst-affected villages in Nalanda district, identified based on wind-related fatalities: Dekpura (Rahui Block, 2 deaths), Nagama (Bihar Sharif Block, 6 deaths), and Dhekawaha (Islampur Block, 3 deaths), as per data from the Disaster Management Department, Govt. of Bihar. A dual-method approach was adopted, combining meteorological analysis with ground-level assessments. Weather data were gathered from the Automatic Weather Station (AWS), Rajgir (Nalanda) and supplemented by manual observations from Patna and Gaya, along with satellite-based storm tracking. Field surveys were conducted on April 12, within 48 h of the storm, documenting damage to infrastructure, vegetation, and crops. These on-site findings were enriched by crowdsourced media—verified images, videos, and local reports—collected via social platforms and news portals. Each site was analysed for wind impact dynamics relative to local terrain and settlement patterns. Wind intensity was estimated using the Enhanced Fujita (EF) scale, validated through both meteorological and damage-based indicators. The study demonstrates the utility of integrating forensic meteorology with remote sensing and community input to reconstruct storm behaviour. Structural and agricultural damage patterns served as effective proxies for estimating wind speed and direction. Insights from this research aim to enhance rural resilience, improve impact based early warning systems, and improve disaster response strategies for extreme convective events.