Patna: Bihar continues to reel under intense cold and dense fog, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a fog alert for all 38 districts of the state on Saturday. While visibility is expected to remain poor during morning and night hours, the weather office has ruled out cold day conditions for now, offering some relief from a sharp drop in daytime temperatures.
According to the Meteorological Centre, Patna, fog conditions are likely to persist over the next 24 to 48 hours. The impact will be more pronounced during late night and early morning hours, while daytime weather is expected to remain largely normal with occasional sunshine. Minimum temperatures across the state may drop by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius.
On Friday, dense fog severely reduced visibility in several districts. In Katihar, visibility dropped sharply due to thick fog, affecting normal movement. Similar conditions were reported around Khagaria railway station, where dense fog enveloped the area, disrupting visibility.
Orange Alert in 15 Districts
The IMD has issued an orange alert for dense fog in 15 districts, warning of very low visibility conditions that could affect road, rail and air transport.
Yellow Alert in 23 Districts
A yellow alert has been issued for 23 districts, including the state capital Patna, where light to moderate fog is expected during early morning hours.
Weather Department’s Assessment
Meteorologists said the impact of the western disturbance has weakened, preventing the formation of cold day conditions. Reduced wind speed has helped maintain stability in maximum temperatures. However, clear skies and calm weather during the night may lead to a further dip in temperatures, intensifying morning fog.
Outlook for the Coming Days
Weather experts predict that severe cold conditions are unlikely in the coming days. Daytime sunshine is expected to provide relief, though cold conditions will persist during night and early morning hours. Minimum temperatures may gradually fall by another 1 to 2 degrees, while maximum temperatures are likely to remain near normal levels.
Patna Weather Update
Patna remains under a yellow alert for fog. Light to moderate fog may affect visibility during morning hours, while clear skies and sunshine are expected later in the day. A slight dip in minimum temperature is likely, with no significant change in maximum temperature.
Schools Closed in Patna Till January 5
In view of the prevailing cold conditions, District Magistrate Dr Thiyagarajan SM has ordered the closure of classes up to Class V in all government and private schools in Patna till January 5. The order also applies to pre-schools and anganwadi centres. Classes from Class VI onwards will operate between 10 am and 3.30 pm. Special classes and examinations for board and pre-board students have been exempted from these restrictions.
