The meteorological department has issued a cold day warning for seven districts of Bihar as residents enter the new year. Parts of Gopalganj, Siwan, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Saharsa, Madhepura and Purnia are expected to experience conditions classified as a cold day, while dense fog is likely to linger over some northern districts.
Bihar weather alert and outlook
Forecasters said a cold westerly breeze sweeping across southern Bihar will increase the chill factor for those districts, even as daytime temperatures rose in several areas. On Thursday, most cities in the state recorded a fall in minimum temperatures, producing a perceptible bite in the early morning air.
Overall, the state’s minimum temperatures ranged between 5.8°C and 10.5°C, while daytime maximums varied from 17.8°C to 24.2°C. Twenty districts reported minimums below 10°C. The lowest temperature was recorded at Jeeradei in Siwan at 5.8°C. Visibility fell to as low as 20 metres in Bhagalpur, where dense fog affected movement and will continue to be a concern while visibility remains poor.
Impact on Patna and northern Bihar
Residents of the state capital received some relief on the first day of the year as clear spells and higher daytime temperatures softened the chill. Patna’s maximum temperature rose to 19.3°C, but a faster night-time wind pushed the minimum down to 8.2°C, leaving many feeling the severe cold overnight.
The weather office expects light fog in the capital during Friday mornings, with skies clearing through the day. However, northern districts are likely to remain under dense fog for longer periods, limiting sunshine and prolonging cold conditions.
What authorities and residents should note
The meteorological department has advised residents to take precautions in the affected districts, particularly the elderly and those with health conditions sensitive to cold. Road users in areas with very low visibility are urged to drive with caution and allow extra time for travel. Local administrations should monitor fog-affected zones and coordinate with transport authorities to reduce disruption.
Farmers and those working outdoors should plan activities around the warmer daylight hours to avoid exposure to the early-morning cold. Public health centres may prepare for a possible increase in cold-related ailments among vulnerable populations while communications should inform residents about changing conditions.
Looking ahead, officials will continue to monitor temperature trends and visibility. Any significant changes to the forecast will be issued through regular weather bulletins to help communities respond promptly to shifting conditions.
Key Takeaways:
- Bihar weather alert issued for seven districts with cold day conditions expected in parts of the state.
- Twenty districts recorded minimum temperatures below 10°C while Bhagalpur reported the lowest visibility at 20 metres.
- Patna experienced daytime warmth that eased the cold for residents, but nights remained sharply colder with a minimum of 8.2°C.
