Patna: Sultry heat continued to grip much of Bihar on Saturday, with residents enduring scorching daytime temperatures and little respite in sight.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), there is no significant relief expected from the prevailing heatwave across the state in the immediate term. However, forecasters have issued warnings of isolated thunderstorms and light rain in parts of Bihar on Sunday.
In a bulletin, the IMD said that light to moderate thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and scattered rain could occur at one or two places in Nawada, Siwan, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai, and Jamui districts. Winds may gust between 30 and 40 kilometres per hour during these storms.
Despite these forecasts, large swathes of Bihar are expected to remain dry. “During the next 24 hours, there is a possibility of rain at one or two places in the north-west and south parts of the state. The remaining areas will stay dry,” the IMD noted. In such conditions, daytime heat and humidity are likely to persist, continuing to trouble residents.
Temperature trends indicate little immediate respite. The IMD predicts no significant change in maximum temperatures over the next 48 hours, though a slight drop of 2-3°C may be felt during the following three days. Minimum temperatures, meanwhile, are likely to remain stable for at least five days.
Parts of the Kosi-Seemanchal region may see comparatively milder weather conditions. Meanwhile, meteorologists have warned of the potential for heavier rain in Jamui and Nawada on July 15.
Dr Birendra Kumar, meteorologist at Bihar Agricultural University in Sabour, said that if skies remain partially cloudy on Sunday, residents could face a mix of intense heat and humidity. “On Monday and Tuesday, skies are expected to be generally cloudy, with the possibility of light rain or drizzles occurring in one or two spells,” he added.
While occasional showers may bring brief relief to pockets of the state, Bihar’s broader heatwave conditions are expected to continue into the coming week, prolonging discomfort for millions.
