Severe Cold Grips Bihar as Minimum Temperature Drops to 4°C
PATNA : Bihar is currently experiencing a severe cold wave, with temperatures plummeting to record lows. Sunday night, December 15, marked the coldest night of the season, as the minimum temperature in the state reached an alarming 4.3°C. This sharp dip in temperature has disrupted daily life, as the cold westerly winds blowing from snow-covered mountainous regions continue to affect the state. In addition, dense fog has blanketed several parts of Bihar, significantly reducing visibility and causing delays in train services.
The Role of Cold Westerly Winds
The intense cold gripping Bihar is largely due to the westerly winds, which are coming from the snow-covered areas of the northern mountains. The Meteorological Center in Patna has confirmed that the fresh snowfall in these mountainous regions is a major contributor to the sharp drop in temperatures in Bihar. The cold winds carry the chill from these regions, causing a significant dip in temperatures wherever they reach.
However, experts also noted that no western disturbance is currently affecting the region. This lack of disturbances means that the weather in the mountainous areas remains dry, with no new snowfall expected in the coming days. The absence of western disturbances also allows for clear skies and sunshine during the daytime, which temporarily eases the cold effect but does little to raise the temperatures substantially.
Fog and Its Impact on Daily Life
One of the most noticeable effects of the severe cold in Bihar has been the thick fog that covers many areas, particularly during the early hours of the morning. This dense fog has not only reduced visibility on roads but has also delayed train services. Many trains are running behind schedule by several hours due to the low visibility. Travelers and commuters are urged to exercise caution while traveling, as the fog is expected to persist for several more days.
Weather Forecast for the Coming Days
According to the weather department, Bihar can expect moderate to dense fog to continue during the late-night and early morning hours. On December 16, fog is likely to cover several districts of Bihar, leading to further disruption in daily activities. The weather department has also predicted that the cold wave-like conditions will persist, particularly in the Rohtas and Bhabua districts, which are expected to experience the chill more intensely.
Despite the continued cold conditions, the forecast indicates a slight improvement in the temperature in the coming days. The night temperatures are expected to rise by 3 to 4°C over the next 3 to 4 days, which may provide some relief to the residents of Bihar. However, the chilly effect will remain strong once the sun sets, and the daytime temperatures will remain relatively mild.
Temperature Trends in Bihar
As of December 16, most parts of Bihar are likely to experience a minimum temperature of 5 to 10°C lower than normal. The maximum daytime temperature is expected to hover between 24 to 26°C, providing a slight reprieve from the frigid conditions during the night.
On December 15, Jamui recorded the lowest minimum temperature in the state at 4.3°C, marking the coldest night so far this season. Other districts like Banka, Dehri, Jiradei, and Pusa also experienced similar low temperatures, with many areas reporting temperatures around 5°C. The chilly conditions are expected to continue, but the weather department is optimistic that the temperatures will gradually stabilize over the coming days.
Impact on Agriculture and Public Health
The severe cold weather is not only affecting daily life but also raising concerns for local agriculture and public health. Farmers, particularly in the affected districts, are worried about the impact of the cold on their crops, especially those sensitive to low temperatures. Cold waves can damage crops like vegetables and grains, which are vital to Bihar’s agricultural economy.
Furthermore, the cold temperatures and thick fog pose health risks, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children. The cold wave increases the risk of respiratory illnesses, and the fog can also contribute to accidents on the roads and railways. The Bihar government has been urged to provide necessary health advisories and take precautions to safeguard public health during this period of severe cold.
Conclusion: A Cold Start to Winter in Bihar
Bihar’s current weather conditions highlight the intensity of the winter chill affecting the state. With the temperature dropping to 4.3°C and fog blanketing many districts, the severe cold has disrupted daily life, delayed transportation, and raised concerns for public health. The cold westerly winds from the north, coupled with the dense fog, are expected to continue for the next few days, although a slight rise in temperatures is anticipated in the coming weeks.
Residents are advised to stay prepared for the ongoing cold wave, take necessary precautions to protect their health, and remain cautious while traveling in foggy conditions. As Bihar braces for more chilly days ahead, the state is also hoping for improved weather conditions in the near future.