Patna: Heatwave conditions have intensified once again across Bihar, with temperatures crossing 40 degrees Celsius in at least nine districts of the state. Rohtas recorded one of the highest temperatures on Sunday at nearly 44°C, while Buxar, Kaimur and Sheikhpura reported temperatures above 42°C.
Residents in Patna also struggled with scorching sunlight and humid weather conditions. The state capital recorded a maximum temperature of 40.6°C on Sunday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert for three districts and advised people to avoid prolonged exposure to hot winds and extreme sunlight.
According to the weather department, the weather is expected to remain mainly clear across Patna and most parts of Bihar over the next five days. Clear skies and strong sunlight are likely to push temperatures higher during this period.
However, the IMD has also forecast heavy rainfall and thunderstorms between May 18 and May 20 in several districts, including Bhagalpur, Purnia, Saharsa, Supaul, Katihar, Araria, Munger, Khagaria, Darbhanga and Madhubani. Patna may also witness partly cloudy skies during this period.
Scorching Heat Likely To Continue In Patna
The weather department said Patna’s maximum temperature is expected to remain between 38°C and 41°C from May 17 to May 21, while the minimum temperature is likely to hover between 28°C and 30°C. The mercury in the capital may touch 41°C on Monday.
A slight dip in temperature is expected on May 19, when the maximum temperature may settle around 38°C. However, temperatures are likely to rise again thereafter, with Patna expected to record around 39°C on May 20 and 41°C on May 21.
Rainfall Activity Weak Across Bihar
Rainfall activity remained weak across Bihar during the last 24 hours, with only isolated areas receiving light showers. According to the weather department, the state has recorded a cumulative rainfall of 122.8 mm so far this season.
Normally, Bihar receives around 50.6 mm rainfall by this time of the year. This year, however, the state has recorded 143 percent excess rainfall compared to the seasonal average. Despite the surplus rainfall figures, pre-monsoon activity has weakened in recent days.
Seemanchal Region Receives Highest Rainfall
The impact of rainfall was mainly seen in the Seemanchal region and some parts of north Bihar. Baisa in Purnia district recorded the highest rainfall at 14.6 mm. Sikti in Araria received 12.4 mm rainfall, while Pothia in Kishanganj recorded 10.2 mm rainfall.
Other areas that received rainfall include Thakurganj with 6 mm, Bahadurganj with 2.6 mm, Dighalbank with 2.4 mm and Kochadhaman with 1.2 mm rainfall.
According to the weather department, the light rainfall provided temporary relief from the heat in these regions, but hot and humid conditions continued to prevail in most parts of Bihar.
