Patna: A cold day situation prevailed across Patna and large parts of Bihar on Friday, the first such occurrence this winter season, as temperatures remained low and dense fog reduced visibility. According to the Meteorological Department, the cold day conditions are likely to persist till December 22.
Humidity levels have crossed 90 percent, significantly narrowing the gap between maximum and minimum temperatures. A yellow alert has been issued for 24 districts, while residents in several parts of the state reported shivering conditions even during daytime hours. Fog intensity has also increased, impacting daily life.
The impact turned fatal in Araria district, where dense fog led to a high-speed collision between a car and a motorcycle late Friday night. Two youths died on the spot and one was injured. The accident occurred on the Raniganj–Sarsi road under Raniganj police station limits. The deceased were identified as Raman Kumar Rishidev (30), a resident of Lakunma village in Raniganj block, and Gholtu Mukhia. The injured, Akhilesh Rishidev, brother of Raman, has been admitted to hospital.
Red Alert for Dense Fog in 12 Districts
The Meteorological Centre on Saturday issued a fog alert for all 38 districts of Bihar. A red alert for dense fog has been issued in 12 districts, while 26 districts are under an orange alert. Visibility in several areas remained poor during morning hours, with late-night visibility expected to drop to between 50 and 200 metres. Low visibility has disrupted road, rail and air traffic across the state.
Schools Closed and Timings Changed
Due to the cold conditions, district administrations have taken precautionary measures. School timings have been revised in Patna, Buxar, Bhojpur, Jehanabad, Aurangabad, Nalanda, Lakhisarai and West Champaran. Meanwhile, schools have been ordered shut in Saran, Darbhanga and Munger districts.
Flights Delayed, One Cancelled
Dense fog in Patna led to major disruptions in air traffic. One pair of Air India flights on the Delhi–Patna–Delhi sector was cancelled, while 16 pairs of flights operated with delays. Authorities indicated that two to three flights could be cancelled on Saturday, and 10 to 12 pairs may continue to operate behind schedule.
Weather Update: Patna and Other Districts
Patna is expected to remain under foggy conditions, especially during morning hours, leading to low visibility. The fog is likely to clear gradually as the day progresses, though light haze may persist. On Friday, Patna recorded a maximum temperature of 14.8 degrees Celsius, a drop of two degrees and 8.6 degrees below normal. The minimum temperature stood at 13.1 degrees Celsius, with a narrow diurnal variation of just 1.7 degrees.
In Buxar, fog intensity has reduced but cloud cover remains, with no sunshine expected. Gopalganj reported no fog on Saturday, but strong westerly winds increased the chill, with overcast skies likely to block sunlight. Gaya continued to experience severe cold, with dense fog since morning and poor visibility forcing vehicles to crawl on roads. The minimum temperature in Gaya was recorded between 10 and 11 degrees Celsius. Light sunshine may appear later in the day, but relief from cold is unlikely.
Why Fog Is Increasing
Weather experts attribute the rise in fog to prevailing westerly winds, high surface-level moisture and very low wind speeds. Rapid cooling at night combined with calm atmospheric conditions causes moisture near the ground to condense into fog. When winds remain still or very slow, fog spreads easily and lingers longer, sharply reducing morning visibility.
Cold Wave Likely After December 24
According to the forecast, Bihar is unlikely to experience a cold wave in the immediate days. Until December 24, maximum temperatures are expected to remain between 22 and 24 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures may hover around 10 degrees. Although the cold will be felt intensely, cold wave conditions are not anticipated at present.
