Patna: Bihar is experiencing an unusual spell of early summer heat, with temperatures in many parts of the state already resembling those typically recorded in May and June. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a change in weather conditions around March 10–11 that could bring rain, thunderstorms and temporary relief from the rising temperatures.
According to meteorologists, daytime temperatures are expected to increase by another one to three degrees Celsius over the next 24 hours. Winds blowing at speeds of up to 20km per hour may intensify the feeling of heat during the afternoon.
Over the past day alone, temperatures across the state have risen by around 5 degrees Celsius, indicating a rapid transition towards summer conditions.
Early heat across Bihar
In Patna, the maximum temperature was recorded at 31.3C, about 1.7 degrees above the seasonal average, while the minimum temperature stood at 20C — approximately 5.3 degrees above normal.
Several districts are likely to see daytime temperatures reaching 33–34C in the coming days, making it increasingly uncomfortable for people outdoors during the afternoon.
The early spike in temperature has prompted concerns of heatwave-like conditions in parts of the state if the warming trend continues.
Rain and thunderstorm alert
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for parts of north-eastern Bihar on March 10 and 11, warning of thunderstorms, lightning and rainfall in isolated areas.
Districts including Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Madhepura, Purnia and Katihar are likely to witness rain accompanied by gusty winds of 30–40km per hour on March 10.
A day later, on March 11, similar weather conditions could extend to more districts including West Champaran, East Champaran, Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Madhubani and parts of north-eastern Bihar.
Western disturbance and Bay system
Meteorologists attribute the expected weather change to the possible activation of a western disturbance in north-western India. Such systems often bring moisture and cloud cover, influencing weather patterns across the Indo-Gangetic plains.
In addition, a developing weather system around the Bay of Bengal and the Gulf of Mannar could contribute to atmospheric instability, increasing the chances of rainfall and gusty winds across eastern India, including Bihar.
If these systems intensify as forecast, they could briefly moderate temperatures and bring respite from the early summer heat currently affecting the state.
