Patna, March 2: Bihar is witnessing early summer-like conditions with temperatures rising steadily across the state, and the Meteorological Department has warned that several districts may experience intense heat around Holi, with the mercury likely to touch 34 degrees Celsius.
According to weather officials, day temperatures in many districts have already crossed 30°C at the beginning of March, while strong westerly winds and dry conditions are intensifying the heat.
In the past 24 hours, the maximum temperature in the state reached 30.4°C, while the minimum temperature was recorded at 12.5°C. The state capital Patna recorded 32.3°C, the highest temperature of the season and the highest in the past two years. Kaimur recorded the highest temperature in the state at 34.2°C.
The Meteorological Department has predicted a further rise in temperatures, stating that the maximum temperature may increase by 1 to 4 degrees Celsius in the next 48 hours. Districts including Patna, Gaya and Bhagalpur are expected to record temperatures between 32°C and 34°C. Across most parts of Bihar, maximum temperatures are likely to remain between 30°C and 34°C till March 7, while minimum temperatures may range between 14°C and 22°C depending on the region. No rainfall has been forecast in the coming days, indicating continued dry weather.
In Bhagalpur, the temperature crossed 30°C at the start of March, while in Purnia, mornings remained mildly cool but afternoons turned hot, with the maximum temperature reaching around 30.9°C. The rising heat has led to fans being used in homes and shops during the afternoon hours.
The dry weather and strong westerly winds are also affecting agriculture, as declining soil moisture levels are impacting Rabi crops. Farmers have begun increasing irrigation for crops such as wheat, maize and vegetables to maintain moisture.
Doctors have advised people to remain cautious as the fluctuation between cool mornings and hot afternoons could lead to seasonal ailments such as cold and cough.
Dr. A. Sattar, Nodal Officer of the Rural Meteorological Centre in Pusa, said people may experience high temperatures even on Holi. “People may have to face high temperatures on the day of Holi as well. After that, there is a possibility of a rapid increase in the day temperature,” he said.
He further noted that the current trend suggests higher-than-normal temperatures in the coming months. “Looking at the current situation, the day temperature may remain five degrees more than normal from March to May this year,” he added.
Meteorological experts also pointed to changing seasonal patterns in the state, noting that spring, which earlier lasted until mid-March, now appears to be ending earlier, with heat beginning to rise by the end of February itself.
