Patna: Bihar will remain in the grip of cold for at least the next two days, with no respite in sight as temperatures continue to drop due to the influence of westerly winds. The mornings and evenings are becoming increasingly chilly, and dense fog is reducing visibility to between 70 and 100 metres in several areas.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for dense fog in 24 districts, including Sheohar and Sitamarhi. Meanwhile, the weather is expected to remain relatively normal in the remaining parts of the state.
Temperatures are likely to dip further in the coming days, with the IMD predicting a fall of 2 to 3 degrees Celsius after two days. Light rain has also been forecast for January 12 in six districts, including Buxar, Bhojpur, Rohtas, Bhabua, Aurangabad, and Arwal. On January 13, rainfall may continue in these areas, with the minimum temperature expected to rise slightly by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius between January 13 and 15.
Light clouds are expected in areas adjoining Uttar Pradesh, but the likelihood of rain remains low. North Bihar and the south-western parts of the state will witness light fog in the mornings.
In Patna, Sheikhpura, West Champaran, Purnia, Supaul, Saharsa, Begusarai, Madhepura, Siwan, and Nalanda, district magistrates have ordered all private and government schools up to Class 8 to remain closed until January 11 due to the cold wave. Classes above Class 8 will begin after 9 am. With January 12 falling on a Sunday, schools in these districts will reopen on January 13. However, schools in Katihar remain open.
According to the IMD, the state’s weather remained largely dry over the past 24 hours, with fog reported at isolated locations in North Bihar. The maximum temperature across most regions has risen by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius. Madhubani recorded the highest maximum temperature at 25.9°C, while Rohtas experienced the lowest minimum temperature of 5.0°C.
Residents are advised to take precautions to protect themselves from the cold and to stay updated with weather advisories.
