Patna: Cold conditions are likely to intensify across Bihar in the coming days, driven by the activation of the jet stream and the inflow of strong northwesterly winds, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said. Northern districts may experience wind speeds reaching up to 40 km/h.
West Champaran, East Champaran, Sitamarhi, Shivhar, Madhubani and Araria are expected to face stronger winds, leading to a significant dip in temperatures, especially during nighttime hours.
Early on Thursday, dense fog blanketed at least eight cities including Patna, Bettiah, Gopalganj and Begusarai, reducing visibility and causing dew accumulation in agricultural fields.
Aurangabad recorded a minimum temperature of 9°C in the last 24 hours — the lowest in the state so far this season. While clear skies and sunshine during the day may keep conditions relatively normal, the mercury continues to fall sharply in the morning and evening.
According to IMD officials, the strong winds may temporarily reduce fog during the morning, but light haze is expected to return by evening. Drivers have been advised to use headlights during early hours as dense fog has disrupted traffic in parts of Gopalganj and Bettiah.
Night temperatures to drop further
Meteorologists forecast that minimum temperatures will continue to decline over the next two to three days. The winter chill is expected to intensify further from the first week of December, particularly in North Bihar.
How the jet stream is influencing weather
Weather experts explain that a jet stream is a high-speed air current flowing in the upper atmosphere, responsible for major weather shifts. With its current position shifting further south, colder winds from the north are sweeping rapidly across Bihar, leading to a steeper night-time temperature drop.
Relief in Patna during daytime
In Patna, the minimum temperature is likely to fall by another 1–2°C within the next 24 hours. The state capital will continue to witness mild cold and fog during the morning and late evening hours. Daytime sunshine, however, is expected to provide some respite.
