Cold Wave and Dense Fog Disrupt Bihar, Schools Shut Till January 18

Patna: Dense fog alert issued for 10 districts, temperatures plummet. Flights delayed, air quality worsens in Bhagalpur and other cities

The chilling winds from North India have intensified cold conditions across Bihar, with a dense fog alert in effect for 17 districts. Cold wave-like conditions persist in Patna, where the temperature has dropped drastically. The Meteorological Department predicts no significant change in minimum temperatures for the next three days, though a western disturbance could cause further drops from January 18.

In response to the severe cold, all private and government schools up to Class VIII in Patna have been ordered to remain closed until January 18. Classes for higher grades will operate between 9 am and 3:30 pm. The cold has caused a sharp dip in Patna’s temperature, which fell by 6.1 degrees Celsius within four hours, recording a maximum of just 17 degrees Celsius by evening. Jamui recorded the lowest minimum temperature of 6.9 degrees Celsius on January 14.

The dense fog has led to travel disruptions, with flights to and from Patna facing delays. Air India, Indigo, and SpiceJet flights bound for Delhi and Bengaluru reported delays ranging from 1 to 4 hours.

A yellow alert has been issued for dense fog in districts like Bettiah, Motihari, Siwan, and Bhojpur, expected to last for the next five days.

Pollution Worsens Amidst the Cold

Amid freezing temperatures, Bihar’s air quality has also deteriorated. Bhagalpur recorded the worst Air Quality Index (AQI) at 299, with other cities like Nalanda, Hajipur, and Patna showing alarming pollution levels. This adds another layer of concern for residents struggling with the harsh weather conditions.

The state is bracing for severe cold, with fluctuating temperatures predicted between January 15 and 21. Kishanganj recorded the highest maximum temperature of 25 degrees Celsius, providing some respite in an otherwise chilling forecast.