Patna: November in Bihar is usually marked by clear skies and the gradual arrival of winter. However, this year, the weather pattern is expected to differ, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting above-normal rainfall across the state.
While Bihar’s average November rainfall stands at around 4.57 mm, meteorologists say the state could receive significantly more rain this year, delaying the onset of cold weather. The expected rainfall will directly influence day and night temperatures in several districts.
Western Disturbance and Bay of Bengal Systems Behind Rain Forecast
According to weather experts, the primary reason for the excess rainfall is the simultaneous activity of Western Disturbances and low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal. These weather systems may bring light to moderate rainfall across southeast and central Bihar.
In addition, a slight rise in sea-surface temperatures in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf region has kept moisture-laden winds active, similar to the monsoon pattern. As a result, parts of Bihar may experience intermittent rain until the first week of November — a deviation from the state’s typical post-monsoon conditions.
Temperatures to Stay Above Normal in Most Districts
The IMD has indicated that both maximum and minimum temperatures will remain above normal in most parts of Bihar this month. Daytime temperatures could touch 29°C in many districts, except for southwestern areas like Aurangabad, Rohtas, and Kaimur, which are likely to be slightly cooler.
Night temperatures, which usually hover between 15°C and 17°C in November, are expected to remain around 17°C to 19°C this year, delaying the arrival of the typical winter chill.
Patna Weather Outlook: Clouds and Drizzle to Persist
In the capital city, Patna, partly cloudy skies and light rainfall are expected in the first two weeks of November. The maximum temperature will likely range between 28°C and 30°C, while the minimum will stay around 18°C to 20°C.
The real winter chill in Patna is expected to set in after November 20, once dry northwesterly winds begin blowing from northern India. Meteorologists predict that foggy mornings and cooler evenings will become noticeable only in the last week of November.
Impact on Agriculture
Weather experts warn that this delay in temperature drop and the persistence of humidity could pose challenges for farmers, particularly affecting the early sowing of Rabi crops like wheat and mustard. High soil moisture levels may delay germination and impact yields if temperatures remain elevated through mid-November.
October Saw 169% More Rainfall Than Average
Bihar witnessed exceptionally heavy rainfall in October, recording 169% more precipitation than normal. On October 5, Supaul’s Saraigarh Bhaptiyahi received 385 mm of rain in just 24 hours — the highest recorded for the month.
Khagaria reported the highest average maximum temperature at 33.4°C, while Purnia recorded the highest single-day temperature at 36.4°C on October 9. The lowest average minimum temperature, 18.2°C, was reported in Valmiki Nagar on October 13.
In Patna, the highest temperature of 34.2°C was recorded on October 21, while the minimum dipped to 22.4°C on October 31. The city also experienced thunderstorms on six days during the month.
With rainfall extending into November, Bihar’s weather is likely to remain unpredictable for a few more weeks before the full onset of winter.
