Severe Cold Wave Sweeps Across Bihar, IMD Warns 27 Districts of Worsening Conditions

Patna, Dec 19: Bihar is currently facing an intense cold wave as temperatures continue to drop sharply across the state, accompanied by dense to very dense fog during morning hours. The cold has become persistent, with damp weather conditions making even daytime hours uncomfortable for residents in many districts. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), cold wave and cold day conditions have been reported in several parts of Bihar, prompting the weather agency to issue alerts for 27 districts. Officials have warned that the next 48 hours are critical, as cold conditions are expected to intensify further before showing any signs of improvement. In the state capital Patna, temperatures witnessed a sudden and significant fall within a single day. The maximum temperature dropped by nearly six degrees Celsius in the past 24 hours, settling at around 16.9 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature stood at 14.0 degrees Celsius. The narrow gap between day and night temperatures has allowed the chill to linger throughout the day, offering little relief even during daylight hours. Though some areas experienced brief sunshine, it failed to provide meaningful warmth. IMD officials explained that this winter is likely to be harsher than the previous year. The cold spell is being driven by a combination of westerly winds, increased surface moisture, and low wind speeds. These conditions are also responsible for the formation of dense fog across large parts of the state. The weather department has forecast particularly thick fog on December 20 and urged people to remain alert and cautious. Several districts are expected to bear the brunt of the cold wave. These include Sitamarhi, East Champaran, West Champaran, Gopalganj, Sheohar, Siwan, Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Samastipur, Buxar, Bhojpur, Patna, Nalanda, Arwal, Rohtas, Kaimur, Aurangabad, Gaya, Jehanabad, Nawada, Sheikhpura, Darbhanga, Begusarai, and Madhubani. Residents in these areas have been advised to take preventive measures to protect themselves from extreme cold. Dense fog has also emerged as a major concern, especially during early morning hours. Visibility on roads has dropped sharply in many districts, creating hazardous travel conditions. Reports from areas such as Gopalganj and Buxar indicate that poor visibility has already led to multiple road accidents, resulting in several injuries and loss of lives. Authorities fear that more incidents could occur if people do not exercise caution. In response to the worsening weather, district administrations across Bihar have been placed on high alert. Local authorities have begun implementing safety measures, including the arrangement of bonfires at public places, shelters for homeless individuals, and readiness of emergency services. Hospitals have been advised to stay prepared to handle cold-related illnesses, especially among children, the elderly, and those with existing health conditions. The IMD has strongly advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel during early morning and late night hours. People have been asked to wear adequate warm clothing, keep themselves dry, and stay indoors whenever possible. Farmers have also been alerted to protect crops and livestock from the impact of extreme cold and fog. Weather officials said cold wave conditions are likely to persist for the next few days, and improvement may only be seen gradually after that. Until then, residents are urged to remain cautious, follow advisories issued by authorities, and take all necessary steps to stay safe during this severe winter spell. Severe Cold Wave Sweeps Across Bihar, IMD Warns 27 Districts of Worsening Conditions Bihar is experiencing an intense cold wave, with temperatures plunging sharply across the state and dense fog covering mornings. Even during the day, damp conditions are keeping the chill alive, making it hard for residents to stay warm. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued cold wave and cold day alerts for 27 districts and warned that the next 48 hours could see the cold intensify further. In Patna, the maximum temperature fell by almost six degrees in just 24 hours, with a high of 16.9°C and a low of 14.0°C. The narrow difference between day and night temperatures is keeping the cold persistent throughout the day. While some areas saw brief sunlight, it offered very little relief. The IMD said this winter may be colder than last year due to westerly winds, high surface moisture, and low wind speeds, which are also causing thick fog. Districts most affected include Sitamarhi, East and West Champaran, Gopalganj, Sheohar, Siwan, Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Samastipur, Buxar, Bhojpur, Patna, Nalanda, Arwal, Rohtas, Kaimur, Aurangabad, Gaya, Jehanabad, Nawada, Sheikhpura, Darbhanga, Begusarai, and Madhubani. Poor visibility from dense fog has already caused several road accidents in Gopalganj and Buxar, resulting in injuries and some fatalities. Authorities are on high alert, arranging bonfires in public places and readying emergency services. Residents are advised to wear warm clothing, stay indoors when possible, and travel cautiously. Farmers are also urged to protect crops and livestock from extreme cold. The IMD has emphasized that cold wave conditions are expected to continue for the next few days, and residents should follow safety measures carefully to stay safe during this severe winter spell.