Patna: Weather conditions across Bihar are expected to remain variable over the coming days, with partial cloud cover likely over Patna and adjoining areas on Saturday, while northern districts may witness light rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning, according to the Meteorological Centre in Patna.
Districts including Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Purnia and Katihar are likely to experience light showers with thunder activity in isolated pockets. Despite these fluctuations, no significant change in temperature is expected over the next three to four days. However, a fresh shift in weather patterns is anticipated after about a week.
Forecasts indicate that between April 24 and April 30, parts of north-central and eastern Bihar may receive light rainfall along with thunder. Wind speeds during this period are expected to range between 40–50 kmph, with the possibility of above-normal rainfall in some areas. The anticipated change in weather may lead to a slight drop in temperatures, keeping overall conditions relatively moderate.
The weather department has advised farmers to take precautions to protect crops in view of possible thunderstorms and lightning. Over the next 24 hours, westerly winds are likely to keep conditions hot and dry across much of the state, with wind speeds possibly reaching up to 50 kmph in some areas. Minimum temperatures have risen by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius over the past day.
On Thursday, partial cloud cover was observed in Patna and surrounding regions, leading to a drop in maximum temperatures across 21 districts. The state capital recorded a maximum temperature of 34.0°C, marking a decline of around 5 degrees Celsius, while Dehri remained the hottest location at 41.6°C. Reduced wind speeds contributed to relatively comfortable weather compared to previous days.
Agricultural conditions remain favourable for summer (garma) crops. Farmers have been advised that this is a suitable time for sowing moong and other seasonal crops, as well as zaid maize. Recommended seed usage for maize is 6 to 8 kilograms per hectare. Wheat threshing should be carried out during calm wind conditions, preferably in the morning or evening, and proper storage should ensure around 12 percent moisture.
For makhana cultivation, maintaining a water level of about one foot in fields is advised to control weeds. Farmers are urged to store harvested crops safely in view of expected rainfall and to plan irrigation based on weather conditions. Spraying of pesticides should be avoided during this period.
In view of possible rain, sowing of summer vegetables should be temporarily halted and resumed immediately after rainfall. Harvested crops such as wheat, pulses and maize should be stored securely. For mango orchards, farmers are advised to spray Planofix solution (1 ml in 4.5 litres of water) to prevent fruit drop and improve yield. Similar measures are recommended for litchi orchards.
Temperature readings across major cities in Bihar on Thursday were as follows: Patna recorded 34.0°C (max) and 25.4°C (min), Gaya 39.4°C and 23.4°C, Bhagalpur 32.7°C and 23.7°C, and Muzaffarpur 31.2°C and 24.3°C.
