Patna: A spell of sunshine has brought some temporary relief in Patna and several districts of Bihar, but the cold wave is far from over. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that winter conditions will continue till the last week of January due to ongoing snowfall in the Himalayan region, which is likely to intensify cold winds over the state.
According to the IMD, foggy conditions are expected in Patna, Begusarai and seven other districts. The presence of strong westerly winds may further increase the chill factor. While many districts will see dense fog in the morning, mild sunshine during the day may offer partial relief.
Seven districts in Bihar are currently recording minimum temperatures below 8 degrees Celsius. In the last 24 hours, temperatures in 14 districts dropped below 10 degrees Celsius. Sabour in Bhagalpur district was the coldest location at 6.2 degrees Celsius, followed by Nalanda at 7.5 degrees.
Weather Outlook for the Coming Days
The IMD has forecast dense fog in four to five districts on January 21. After that, cold conditions are expected to remain normal for the next six days. A further drop of 1 to 2 degrees Celsius in minimum temperatures is likely.
From January 20–21 onward, cold and dry north-westerly winds are expected to strengthen. Once these winds become active, a fresh dip in night temperatures may be recorded across Bihar.
Patna Weather Update
In Patna, fog will persist during early morning hours and late at night. The minimum temperature is expected to remain between 11 and 12 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature may range from 23 to 24 degrees Celsius. At present, the cold is not severe in the capital, and continuous sunshine during the day has reduced the chill.
In the last 24 hours, Patna recorded a minimum temperature of 11.2 degrees Celsius.
Why Is Fog Increasing?
Meteorologists say the combination of cold winds, moisture and stable atmospheric conditions over north India is causing dense fog across Bihar. The impact of fog is likely to continue during morning and evening hours over the next few days.
The district administration and disaster management department have been instructed to remain on alert to deal with any accidents or disruptions caused by poor visibility.
Advisory for Public and Authorities
The IMD has advised people to take precautions in view of dense fog. Vehicle drivers have been urged to drive at low speeds and use fog lights. Extra caution is needed on highways and bridges, especially during early morning hours. Train and bus services may also face delays due to reduced visibility.
Air Quality Worsens in Parts of Patna
With increased vehicular movement and dry weather, dust particles are rising again, making the city’s air more polluted. Due to moisture in the air during morning and evening hours, dust is getting trapped in the lower atmosphere.
Air quality around Veterinary Ground, Patna Airport and the Planetarium area has been recorded as the worst. On Monday, the AQI near Veterinary Ground stood at 237. PM2.5 and PM10 levels were found to be more than double the prescribed limits.
As per Central Pollution Control Board standards, AQI levels above 200 can have adverse health effects, especially for children, the elderly and those with respiratory problems.
Other Districts With Poor Air Quality
Bihar Sharif – 242
Hajipur – 217
Samastipur – 203
Authorities have urged people to avoid outdoor activities during early morning and late evening hours and use masks if necessary, especially in highly polluted zones.
