Patna: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted an intense heatwave across the country, including Bihar, from April to June. With temperatures expected to rise significantly, the coming months could bring severe heat-related challenges. Additionally, there is no sign of relief from rainfall during this period.
Southern Bihar to Experience Extreme Heat
The southern districts of Bihar are likely to witness harsher heat conditions compared to North Bihar. According to the Meteorological Center in Patna, April’s maximum temperature is expected to be 50% higher than normal. Hot nights are also anticipated as the minimum temperature is forecasted to remain above average.
Typically, Bihar’s normal maximum temperature ranges between 36-38 degrees Celsius. However, the IMD estimates a 60% increase in minimum temperatures this season.
Rainfall Deficiency and Rising Temperatures
The normal minimum temperature for Bihar in April is around 20-22 degrees Celsius. However, rainfall is expected to be 40% below normal, with an average rainfall of just 18.0 mm. The dominance of westerly winds will keep the state’s weather dry. Over the next 48 hours, maximum temperatures are expected to rise by 1-3 degrees across most areas, while minimum temperatures may increase within 72 hours.
There is a forecast of light rain accompanied by thunderstorms in Buxar, Kaimur, and Rohtas districts on April 3. Meanwhile, Patna and its surrounding areas may experience partly cloudy weather post-noon. Over the past 24 hours, the minimum temperature has increased in 21 cities, including Patna.
Temperature Trends in Key Cities
Patna recorded a minimum temperature of 21.3 degrees Celsius, while Pusa in Samastipur recorded the lowest minimum temperature in the state at 13.0 degrees Celsius. The maximum temperature in Patna stood at 37.5 degrees Celsius.
Khagaria witnessed the highest maximum temperature in the state at 38.9 degrees Celsius. In Patna and nearby areas, the morning and evening remained relatively normal, though some locations reported partly cloudy skies.
The maximum temperature has risen across all districts, with notable increases recorded in:
- Patna: +1.1°C
- Purnia: +1.2°C
- Forbesganj: +1.8°C
- Supaul: +2.0°C
- Motihari: +1.3°C
- Dehri: +1.0°C
- Vaishali: +1.1°C
- Valmiki Nagar: +1.1°C
With the intense summer approaching, authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses and to stay hydrated.
