Patna: After a brief spell of relief, Bihar is once again reeling under intense heat as a severe heatwave grips large parts of the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD), Patna, has issued a yellow alert for 26 districts, warning of scorching temperatures and rising humidity levels over the next few days.
According to the Meteorological Centre in Patna, maximum temperatures in many cities are expected to hover between 42°C and 43°C this week, with the mercury already breaching the 40°C mark in several regions on Monday. The highest maximum temperature was recorded in Dehri at 42.4°C, followed closely by Gaya, Aurangabad, Gopalganj, and Vikramganj, all of which reported temperatures above 40°C.
The districts under the yellow alert include Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur, Begusarai, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, and Khagaria, among others. The alert warns of “hot day” and “humid day” conditions, with the IMD predicting a rise of 4–6°C in maximum temperatures over the next 3–4 days. Minimum temperatures, however, are expected to remain steady.
A senior IMD official said, “The moist easterly winds coming from the Bay of Bengal are contributing to the high humidity levels. This will intensify the discomfort, especially during the daytime.”
On Monday, the state capital Patna recorded a maximum temperature of 39°C, and residents reported facing intense discomfort due to the combination of high heat and humidity. Many other cities, barring a few such as Munger, Agwanpur, Madhepura, Araria, Purnia, Kishanganj, and Katihar, also witnessed a rise in day temperatures.
The heatwave is expected to persist for at least the next five days, with no immediate respite in sight. Authorities have urged residents, especially children and the elderly, to avoid exposure during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Key Recommendations:
- Stay indoors between 11 AM and 4 PM
- Wear light, breathable clothing
- Consume plenty of fluids
- Use hats or umbrellas if stepping out is unavoidable
