Patna: Bihar is set to face another spell of intense summer heat as “Nautapa” — a nine-day period associated with extreme temperatures — begins on May 25 and continues until June 2.
According to weather experts, the period is typically marked by intensified solar radiation and a sharp rise in temperatures, increasing the likelihood of severe heatwave conditions across northern India.
Temperatures Cross 45C in Bihar
Large parts of Bihar continued to reel under scorching heat on Saturday, with temperatures crossing 45C in several districts.
Officials said:
- Dehri recorded the state’s highest temperature at 45.1C
- Bhabhua touched 44.4C
- Buxar recorded 43.5C
- Sheikhpura reached 43.2C
- Aurangabad recorded 43.1C
- Patna registered 41.1C
The IMD said temperatures exceeded 40C in at least 13 cities across the state.
Heatwave Disrupts Daily Life
The prolonged heatwave has severely affected daily life in Bihar, with intense sunshine and high humidity making outdoor movement difficult.
In Patna, authorities have begun spraying water on roads after reports that extreme heat had caused vehicle tyres to burst on overheated surfaces.
Commuters were seen gathering near the water sprays in an attempt to find temporary relief from the heat.
Meteorological Department Warns of Continuing Heat
Meteorologists said no major change in weather conditions was expected over the next three to four days.
According to forecasts:
- Heatwave conditions are likely to continue on May 24
- Dry weather is expected across most districts
- Slight relief may begin in some areas after May 25
- Western and central parts of South Bihar are likely to remain under intense heatwave conditions
The weather department has also issued a fresh heatwave warning for Muzaffarpur district from May 25 onward.
Abdus Sattar, nodal officer at the Dr.Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, said temperatures were expected to rise rapidly again after recent rainfall.
— Mausam Bihar- IMD Patna (@imd_patna) May 23, 2026
Doctors Warn of Health Risks During ‘Nautapa’
Doctors and weather experts said the period between 12pm and 3pm would be particularly dangerous during Nautapa due to extreme solar intensity.
Experts warned that prolonged exposure to heat during this period could cause:
- Heatstroke
- Severe headaches
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Fainting
In severe cases, excessive heat exposure can become life-threatening.
Children, elderly people and outdoor workers were described as particularly vulnerable.
Health Experts Issue Precautionary Advisory
Medical experts advised people to:
- Avoid stepping outdoors during peak afternoon hours
- Keep the head and face covered when outside
- Drink water and ORS regularly
- Stay in shaded or cool areas whenever possible
- Avoid leaving home on an empty stomach
They also recommended consumption of cooling foods and drinks such as:
- Watermelon
- Cucumber
- Muskmelon
- Yogurt
- Buttermilk
Doctors said individuals showing signs of severe dizziness or heat exhaustion should immediately be moved to a shaded area and provided fluids or oral rehydration solution.
