Patna: Cold weather conditions are tightening their grip across Bihar as fluctuations in minimum temperatures continue to affect all districts. According to the Meteorological Centre, Patna, cold conditions are expected to intensify during night and morning hours across most parts of the state over the next seven days, with fog and haze likely to persist.
Dense fog was recorded in Begusarai on Sunday morning, while similar conditions are expected in several other districts. The weather department has forecast haze in most parts of Bihar during morning hours for the next three to four days. Despite the chill, people are getting temporary relief from mild sunshine during the daytime.
In Patna, westerly winds slowed slightly on Saturday morning, accompanied by hazy conditions. Visibility dropped sharply in some regions, with Gaya recording the lowest visibility of 200 metres. Kishanganj reported the lowest minimum temperature in the state at 7.6 degrees Celsius, while Motihari recorded the highest maximum temperature at 29.2 degrees Celsius.
The Meteorological Department noted that while some districts witnessed a marginal drop in minimum temperatures over the past 24 hours, others recorded a slight increase. However, no rainfall is expected anywhere in the state in the coming days.
Meanwhile, air pollution levels in Patna remain a major concern. The Air Quality Index in the city has fluctuated between 151 and 333, indicating moderate to severe air pollution. The areas around the airport and Veterinary College grounds continue to record consistently poor air quality. On Saturday, the AQI at both locations touched 333, which, as per Central Pollution Control Board standards, falls in the ‘very poor’ category and poses serious health risks.
Air pollution expert Raviranjan Sinha said residents are inhaling high levels of dust particles, adding that increased humidity and fog could further aggravate pollution levels in the coming days.
The Meteorological Department has stated that light fog or haze may continue during morning hours in North Bihar and adjoining districts. Due to daytime sunshine, maximum temperatures are expected to remain near normal. There is currently no indication of rainfall in any part of Bihar.
Issuing a health and traffic advisory, the weather department urged people to take special precautions during cold conditions. Elderly persons, children, and those with existing health issues have been advised to wear adequate warm clothing, especially during mornings and evenings. Drivers have been cautioned to maintain controlled speeds and use fog lights while driving in foggy or low-visibility conditions to avoid accidents.
