Patna: Revellers celebrating Holi in Bihar were met with rising temperatures and strong sunshine on Friday, as forecasters warned that dry conditions are likely to persist across the state for at least a week.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), clear skies prevailed over most districts from early morning, allowing the sun to shine intensely throughout the day. While conditions remained relatively pleasant in the early hours, temperatures climbed steadily by afternoon, leaving those playing with colours and gulal exposed to an increasingly harsh sun.
The festival, which falls in the Hindu month of Phalgun, felt more akin to the peak summer heat of Jyeshtha by midday, with many reporting discomfort during outdoor celebrations. Some respite is expected towards the evening as temperatures dip slightly after sunset.
The IMD said there are currently no indications of rainfall or cloud cover over Bihar. Dry weather is forecast to continue for the next seven days. Maximum temperatures are expected to remain largely stable for the next two to three days before rising gradually by 2°C to 4°C. Minimum temperatures are also likely to increase, contributing to warmer conditions during both day and night.
Meteorologists attributed the early rise in heat partly to the absence of any active western disturbance and the weakening of cooler north-westerly winds. In addition, a weak La Niña phase in the Pacific Ocean and a neutral Indian Ocean Dipole are expected to contribute to above-normal temperatures across eastern India this year.
The IMD warned that the risk of heatwaves could increase between March and May, particularly in April and May, with urban areas likely to experience intensified conditions due to the heat island effect.
Authorities have advised residents to limit prolonged exposure to the sun during the afternoon, stay hydrated, wear light cotton clothing and take adequate rest after outdoor festivities.
