Severe Heatwave Hits Bihar: Authorities Issue Heat and Hot Night Alerts

Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for a relentless heatwave in Bihar, predicting maximum temperatures to remain above 40 degrees Celsius in most parts of south Bihar until June 1. North Bihar districts are also expected to experience maximum temperatures ranging from 38 to 40 degrees Celsius.

On Tuesday, the Patna Meteorological Centre forecasted that the maximum temperature across the state is expected to rise by two to three degrees over the next two to three days and remain steady over the subsequent two days. This intense heatwave has shattered a 12-year record in Bihar, with Aurangabad’s temperature nearing 48 degrees Celsius on Tuesday. Additionally, nine districts have recorded temperatures exceeding 44 degrees Celsius.

A yellow alert for a heatwave has been issued for Gaya, Aurangabad, Rohtas, Kaimur, and Buxar, while a yellow alert for hot nights has been announced for Nawada, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Darbhanga, and East Champaran. The westerly winds have intensified the heat in Patna and other districts in south Bihar, leading to severe heatwave conditions in Buxar and heatwave-like conditions in Patna, Gaya, Dehri, Sheikhpura, Mui, Bhojpur, Vaishali, Aurangabad, Khagaria, Nalanda, Arwal, Rohtas, and Munger.

On Tuesday, the maximum temperature in approximately 25 districts, including Patna, increased by 0.3 to 8.6 degrees Celsius. Gaya saw the most significant increase, with temperatures rising by 8.6 degrees.

The extreme heat has forced residents of Patna to rely heavily on air conditioners and coolers, leading to a substantial increase in electricity consumption. Traditionally, peak electricity usage was between 6 pm and 11 pm, but this pattern has shifted, with daytime consumption now mirroring peak hours. A new record for electricity consumption was set on May 26, reflecting the severe impact of the heatwave.