Patna: After a brief spell of relief, intense heatwave conditions have once again gripped Bihar, including the state capital Patna, with temperatures in several districts nearing 45 degrees Celsius on Monday. The scorching conditions made it the hottest day of the season so far in the state.
Gaya recorded the highest temperature in Bihar at 44.6°C, followed closely by Rohtas at 44.5°C and Buxar at 44.4°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for heatwave conditions in Rohtas, Kaimur, and Buxar districts.
In view of the severe heat, the Buxar district administration has ordered the closure of all government and private schools from Classes 1 to 8 till May 31. In Samastipur, schools have been directed to operate only till 11 am.
According to the Meteorological Department, no major change in temperature is expected over the next four days. People are likely to continue facing extreme heat, strong sunlight, and humid conditions during the daytime, although some areas may witness light drizzle or brief cloud cover in the evening.
Nautapa to Begin From May 25
The nine-day period of extreme summer heat known as “Nautapa” will begin on May 25 and continue till June 2. During this period, Bihar is expected to witness severe heatwave conditions, with temperatures likely to remain at peak levels.
Seven Districts Record Temperatures Above 40°C
During the last 24 hours, seven districts in Bihar recorded maximum temperatures above 40°C. Apart from Gaya, Motihari recorded 39.6°C, Arwal 39.3°C, and Jehanabad 39.2°C.
Patna also witnessed temperatures crossing 41°C, with residents struggling due to hot winds and intense sunlight throughout the day.
Meanwhile, the severe heat led to a massive rush of tourists at Kakolat Waterfall in Nawada district, where people gathered in large numbers to bathe in the cold water to escape the soaring temperatures. Officials said the crowd was so heavy that there was barely any space left around the waterfall area.
14 Schoolgirls Faint Due to Heat in Sheikhpura
In a worrying incident linked to the heatwave, 14 girl students fainted in Sheikhpura on Monday. The students of Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) reportedly collapsed while returning to the hostel amid the intense heat.
Weather Likely to Change From May 20
The Meteorological Department has forecast thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds with speeds of 50 to 60 kmph in several districts of north-central, north-eastern, and south-eastern Bihar on May 20.
On May 21, southern Bihar districts may also witness rainfall and gusty winds. Light rain is likely to begin in Araria, Kishanganj, Purnia, and Katihar districts from May 19 onwards. Isolated rainfall has also been predicted in West Champaran and East Champaran districts.
Partial cloud cover is expected in some districts of the Seemanchal and Kosi regions, including Saharsa, Madhepura, Araria, Kishanganj, Purnia, Supaul, and Katihar, which may provide slight relief from the heat.
Why Has the Weather Changed?
Weather scientists said the cyclonic circulation and western disturbance that had affected Bihar last week have weakened significantly. With reduced cloud movement, strong sunlight has returned across the state. Moisture already present in the atmosphere is further increasing humidity levels, making the heat feel more intense and uncomfortable.
The IMD has advised people to avoid stepping out during the afternoon unless absolutely necessary and to take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
