Patna: Bihar is set to experience an early and intense heatwave, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting scorching temperatures as early as March. The department has issued warnings of potential heatwave conditions, particularly in the southwestern districts of the state.
The pre-monsoon season, which officially began on March 1st and extends to May 31, is already witnessing a significant rise in temperatures as the sun moves towards the Tropic of Cancer. This early surge in heat has prompted concerns about the impact on public health and daily life.
According to the IMD, the minimum temperature across Bihar is expected to drop by two to three degrees from Sunday, while the maximum temperature is forecast to steadily increase from Monday onwards.
Temperature records reveal that the maximum mercury in Bihar on Saturday ranged from 28.9 to 33.5 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature fluctuated between 14.1 and 19.4 degrees. Madhubani recorded the highest maximum temperature at 33.5 degrees Celsius, and 26 cities in the state saw maximum temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.
The forecast suggests that both maximum and minimum temperatures will remain above normal for March. The normal maximum temperature for the state during this month is between 30 to 33 degrees Celsius, and the normal minimum temperature is between 15 to 17 degrees Celsius.
Adding to the concern, February witnessed record-breaking heat, surpassing the previous five years’ averages, forcing residents to resort to fans and air conditioners much earlier than usual. The start of the pre-monsoon season on March brought light to moderate rainfall in several districts, including Patna, but the overall trend points towards a prolonged period of intense heat.
