Patna: Residents across Bihar are reeling under intense heat as a severe heatwave continues to grip the state. After witnessing moderate rainfall and thunderstorms earlier this month, dry westerly winds have pushed temperatures to extreme levels over the past four to five days.
Severe Heatwave Alert for 17 Districts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for severe heatwave conditions in 17 districts, including Patna. The affected areas are Buxar, Bhojpur, Bhabua, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Arwal, Nalanda, Jehanabad, Gaya, Nawada, Begusarai, Sheikhpura, Jamui, Khagaria, Bhagalpur, Munger, and Banka.
The IMD has cautioned residents to avoid outdoor exposure during peak hours and stay hydrated as temperatures are expected to remain significantly above normal.
Yellow Alert in Four North Bihar Districts
A yellow alert has also been issued for East Champaran, West Champaran, Sheohar, and Gopalganj, where the maximum temperature is expected to rise by one to three degrees Celsius over the next three days.
Weather Likely to Shift Again from April 26
Relief may be on the horizon as the weather department has forecast thunderstorms and rainfall across nine districts starting April 26. Districts under this new alert include Sitamarhi, Madhubani, West Champaran, Shivhar, Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Katihar, and Begusarai.
The upcoming shift in weather could provide temporary respite from the scorching heat, although heavy rain and thunderstorms may pose their own challenges.
Scorching Heat Disrupts Life in Patna
In the state capital, the heatwave disrupted daily life on Wednesday, with temperatures soaring above the seasonal average. The sun blazed relentlessly, leaving people seeking shelter and hydration throughout the day.
Following the Indian Air Force’s Aerobatic Surya Kiran team’s performance near the iconic Sabhyata Dwar, traffic congestion worsened along the JP Ganga Path. Vehicles moved at a snail’s pace from LCT Ghat and Krishna Ghat to Gandhi Maidan, passing through the Commissioner’s Office route.
