PRAYAGRAJ, June 27 -- With the monsoon advancing into parts of Bihar, weather experts predict that Prayagraj and nearby areas are likely to receive rain within the next 48 to 72 hours due to the formation of a low-pressure area over the region. Noted weather expert and former head of the department of Geography at Allahabad University, Prof BN Mishra said the low-pressure system over the north Gangetic plains is expected to draw moisture-laden winds from both the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea branches of the monsoon, creating favourable conditions for rainfall. He said both monsoon branches have so far failed to gain enough strength to move effectively towards the Gangetic plains, largely due to the impact of El Nino conditions. While the Bay of Bengal branch has already reached West Bengal, Odisha and Bihar, it has not yet advanced with full force into Uttar Pradesh. Similarly, the Arabian Sea branch has covered parts of Maharashtra and Gujarat but has been unable to progress rapidly towards the Ganga plains. Prof Mishra added that India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports also indicate that monsoon showers are likely to reach Uttar Pradesh within the next three to four days. The weakness of both monsoon branches has delayed its arrival in the state by nearly two weeks. He warned that the delay could affect kharif crops such as paddy, soybean, millet and pulses. According to him, around 96 per cent of normal rainfall is considered healthy for agriculture, but based on the current trend, several regions where the monsoon has already arrived may not receive even 70 per cent of the expected rainfall. Meanwhile, maximum temperatures in Prayagraj are likely to remain between 42 degrees Celsius and 43 degrees Celsius over the next three to four days. However, occasional showers may provide temporary relief from the prevailing heat, he said....