Bihar Weather Update: Rising Temperatures and Heatwave Likely Across the State

KKN  Gurugram Desk | As summer arrives early in Bihar, the state is already experiencing soaring temperatures, some regions reaching over 40°C. This has created a heatwave-like condition, particularly in several districts. On March 27, Buxar recorded the highest temperature at 41.4°C, signaling an early onset of intense heat.

Heatwaves and Rising Temperatures in Bihar

The weather across Bihar has been exceptionally hot, with temperatures surpassing 40°C in many areas. The capital city of Patna, as well as other southern districts of Bihar, are expected to see further temperature increases over the next few days. According to the meteorological department of Patna, the hot winds blowing from southern and western Bihar may cause the temperature to rise by as much as 3°C in some places.

Additionally, strong winds with speeds of 30 km per hour are expected to prevail across various regions, which could increase the discomfort caused by the high heat. This development has prompted concern, as the people of Bihar are already dealing with severe heat conditions.

The Hottest Districts and Areas in Bihar

On March 27, Buxar recorded the highest temperature in Bihar, reaching 41.4°C. Other districts that saw similarly high temperatures include Khagaria (40.6°C), Jeeradei (40°C), Aurangabad (39.7°C), Sheikhpura (39.6°C), Madhubani (39.5°C), Gopalganj (39.1°C), and areas like Gaya, Jamui, and Banka, where the temperatures also hovered around 39°C. These extreme temperatures have left residents struggling to cope with the sudden heat.

While the maximum temperatures have been alarming, the minimum temperatures across the state are also steadily rising. The highest minimum temperature recorded so far was 25.7°C, while Sheikhpura registered a relatively lower minimum of 15.5°C. Regardless, the consistently rising temperatures have significantly impacted the daily lives of the people of Bihar.

Impact of Hot Winds and Weather Phenomena

According to meteorological experts, the current heat wave in Bihar is primarily driven by changes in atmospheric conditions. The state is experiencing hot winds due to a western disturbance and upper atmospheric changes, which are causing an upward shift in temperatures across northern India, including Bihar. Additionally, a cyclonic circulation is present over central Pakistan and surrounding areas, further exacerbating the rise in temperatures in the region.

Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

The weather department has issued the following forecast for Bihar over the next two to three days:

• Temperature Range 38-40°C: The cities of Patna, Gaya, Aurangabad, Buxar, Bhojpur, Siwan, Saran, Nalanda, Nawada, Jamui, Banka, Rohtas, Jehanabad, and Arwal are expected to experience temperatures in this range.

• Temperature Range 34-36°C: Other parts of the state are likely to experience slightly lower but still intense temperatures.

• Strong Winds: Wind speeds of up to 30 km per hour are expected across most districts, which will likely intensify the feeling of heat.

• Nighttime Temperatures: It is predicted that nighttime temperatures may rise by up to 3°C in the next few days, offering little relief during the nights.

Precautionary Measures Amidst Intense Heat

As the intense heatwave continues to grip Bihar, it is important for residents to take necessary precautions. Doctors have strongly advised people to avoid stepping out in the sun during peak hours, typically from 11 am to 4 pm. Wearing light and breathable cotton clothing, drinking plenty of water, and covering the head when going outdoors are some key preventive measures to avoid heatstroke and dehydration.

The scorching temperatures are expected to worsen in the coming weeks, with April and May historically being the hottest months in Bihar. Therefore, it is essential for citizens to stay prepared for more intense heat in the upcoming days.

Challenges of Rising Temperatures in Bihar

The early onset of summer in Bihar has made it harder for residents to adjust to the unseasonal heat. The heatwave has particularly affected vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and people working outdoors in the fields. For daily wage laborers and farmers, the scorching sun has made work almost unbearable, with many people unable to continue their daily tasks under such extreme conditions.

Furthermore, the rise in temperature also brings about concerns regarding water scarcity. With the increase in heat, the demand for water rises significantly, and water resources in some parts of Bihar are already under strain. The heat has also led to a higher demand for electricity, as people seek to cool their homes using fans and air conditioning systems, further escalating the pressure on the local infrastructure.

Rural Areas Hit Harder by Extreme Heat

While urban areas like Patna are somewhat accustomed to handling extreme heat with access to cooling devices, rural districts are bearing the brunt of the heatwave more severely. Lack of access to clean drinking water, healthcare facilities, and adequate cooling methods makes it more difficult for rural populations to cope with the intensifying temperatures. Additionally, agricultural communities are facing challenges as high heat hampers crop growth and productivity, raising concerns about food security in the region.

The Bihar government and local authorities have started to issue heatwave advisories and are closely monitoring the weather conditions. However, due to the large geographic area of the state, it remains difficult for the government to implement measures on a large scale to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.

Government and Local Initiatives

In response to the early heatwave, the Bihar government has begun distributing relief materials, such as bottled water and cooling packets, in some of the affected regions. Temporary shelters with access to fans and coolers have been set up in public spaces to offer some respite from the heat, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly and children.

Additionally, local health centers have been advised to stay alert and be prepared to treat patients who suffer from heatstroke or dehydration. The government has also launched awareness campaigns to educate people on the importance of staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours.

The Future of Bihar’s Climate and Heatwaves

With global warming and changing climatic patterns, Bihar, like many other regions in India, is likely to see more frequent and intense heatwaves in the coming years. Experts predict that the frequency of extreme weather events, including heatwaves and droughts, will only increase as the climate continues to change. Therefore, both the government and citizens need to prepare for the long-term impacts of these climate shifts.

For sustainable development, it will be crucial for Bihar to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, improved water management systems, and more efficient cooling technologies. A proactive approach to climate adaptation will be essential to protect the well-being of the people of Bihar as the state navigates the challenges of extreme heat and other climate-related issues.

The early heatwave in Bihar is a warning sign of the increasingly unpredictable and extreme weather patterns the state may face in the coming months. With temperatures already reaching over 40°C in several districts, it is crucial for residents to take necessary precautions to stay cool and hydrated. As the state braces for even higher temperatures in the coming weeks, the government, along with local authorities, must continue to provide relief and support to those most affected by the heatwave.