Patna: Bihar is set to endure cold conditions for the next two days as the India Meteorological Department issues a dense fog alert for 18 districts on Friday. Westerly winds are expected to intensify the chill, with no significant change predicted in the minimum temperature during this period. From January 27, the minimum temperature may dip further by 2-3 degrees Celsius, and light rain is forecast for the same day.
In response to the cold wave, the state government has ordered the closure of schools up to Class 8 in 10 districts, including Patna, Gopalganj, Motihari, Saharsa, Chhapra, Araria, Madhepura, Supaul, Katihar, and Madhubani, until January 25. With Republic Day on January 26 and the following Sunday, schools are scheduled to reopen on January 27.
Meteorologist Kumar Gaurav attributed the prevailing conditions to two cyclonic circulations: one over northern Pakistan and its surrounding areas, and another over southwest Madhya Pradesh. He noted that while the maximum temperature may rise slightly, the minimum temperature is likely to drop, maintaining the cold wave.
Gaya emerged as the warmest district in the last 24 hours, with a maximum temperature of 26.1°C, while Jamui recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 6.9°C.
The dense fog and plummeting temperatures have raised concerns across the state, with residents urged to take precautions against the harsh weather conditions.
