Patna: With November halfway through, winter has firmly set in across Bihar. Active westerly winds and clear skies have driven down night temperatures, turning Tuesday morning into the coldest of the season so far. In several districts, the mercury dipped to 12°C, while daytime temperatures fell about two degrees below normal, marking a definitive shift to cold weather.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the drop in temperature is the result of persistent westerly winds combined with clear skies, allowing heat to escape rapidly at night. The department has forecast colder nights and foggy mornings in the coming days as humidity levels rise overnight.
Cold mornings, foggy commutes
Dense fog blanketed large parts of North Bihar on Wednesday morning, reducing visibility and making early travel difficult for officegoers and schoolchildren. Meteorologists say the combination of moisture-laden air and falling temperatures will cause fog to thicken further over the next few days.
The minimum temperature across the state on Tuesday ranged between 12.5°C and 17.2°C, with Aurangabad emerging as the coldest district at 12.5°C. Motihari, meanwhile, recorded the highest maximum temperature at 31°C. Nighttime temperatures in Gaya, Sheikhpura, Vaishali, Saharsa, Rajgir, Arwal, and Bikramganj hovered around 14°C or lower, leaving early risers shivering despite mild sunshine during the day.
In Patna, the minimum temperature was 12.8°C, while the lowest statewide readings — 11.5°C — were recorded in Madhubani (West Champaran) and Nauhatta (Rohtas). The average wind speed was measured at 5 km/h, predominantly from the west.
Dry spell continues
The IMD has ruled out rain for the next three to four days, forecasting dry and crisp winter weather across the state. Meteorologists expect temperatures to fall further as westerly winds strengthen slightly in the second half of the week. “The cooling effect will intensify over the next few days as wind patterns stabilise and humidity levels remain low,” a Met department official said.
Winter habits return
The cold snap has already begun to alter daily routines in cities and towns. Morning commuters were seen wrapped in sweaters, mufflers, and jackets, while tea stalls and woollen shops witnessed brisk business. Street vendors reported increased sales of warm clothing and hand-knitted wear.
The familiar winter rhythm — fog at dawn, sunshine by noon, and the evening chill settling in early — has returned to Bihar’s landscape. As the IMD predicts continued cooling, the season of quilts, tea, and early sunsets has officially begun in the state.
