The intense heat, coupled with strong sunlight and hot winds, has prompted people to reconsider venturing outdoors during the day. In Buxar, the mercury has crossed the 42-degree mark, indicating a relentless heatwave expected to persist in the coming days.
The northern and western parts of Bihar are particularly affected, with conditions resembling a heatwave in most areas. Districts such as Buxar, Sheikhpura, Aurangabad, Banka, Bhojpur, Siwan (Jiradei), Nawada, Rohtas (Dehri), Khagaria, and Gopalganj have recorded temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. In places like Buxar, Sheikhpura, Aurangabad, and Banka, the situation is exacerbated by scorching hot winds.
However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has not yet declared a heatwave due to technical reasons in these districts/stations.
The forecast predicts a further rise in temperatures by two to three degrees in the next two days across the state. However, a change in weather conditions is expected thereafter, with a possibility of light rain in some places in the southern, southwestern, and southeastern districts on April 7th and 8th.
The IMD Patna’s official report indicates Buxar as the hottest place in the state, with temperatures reaching 42.2 degrees Celsius. Sheikhpura recorded 42.1 degrees Celsius, Aurangabad 41.5 degrees Celsius, and Banka 41 degrees Celsius. Other districts such as Khagaria, Gopalganj, Bhojpur, and Siwan (Jiradei) registered temperatures between 40.3 to 40.8 degrees Celsius. Even in Patna, Gaya, Jamui, Valmikinagar, Madhubani, and Motihari, temperatures ranged from 39 to 40 degrees Celsius, indicating a significant deviation from normal.
While some districts are experiencing heatwave conditions, the IMD may officially declare a heatwave if similar temperatures persist on Friday. However, further temperature increases are expected, urging people to take precautions from now onwards.
Sunil Thool, Director, IMD Patna