Patna:The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a deadly heatwave alert for the next three days in Bihar, as the state continues to reel under extreme heat. There is no immediate relief in sight, with monsoon rains expected to be delayed.
Monsoon Delayed by Three Days
For the first time in four years, the southwest monsoon is expected to arrive late in Bihar. This delay is concerning for both agriculture and the overall climate of the region. The monsoon, which was initially predicted to arrive by June 15, is now delayed by approximately three days. IMD has refrained from making any specific predictions about the monsoon’s arrival, citing a lack of active weather systems necessary to advance the monsoon. Currently, one branch of the monsoon has been stationary in Islampur, West Bengal, for the past 17 days.
72-Hour Weather Forecast
According to the IMD Patna bulletin, there is no forecast for monsoon entry into Bihar for the next 72 hours. However, a trough line extends from southeastern Bihar to Assam, accompanied by a cyclonic circulation. This could result in thunderstorms and heavy winds, particularly in eastern India.
Heatwave Alerts for the Next Three Days
Despite mid-June approaching, a red alert for extreme heat has been issued for the southwestern parts of Bihar for the next three days. Orange and yellow alerts have been issued for south-central and southeastern regions, respectively. This means the eastern part of the state may experience light rains, while the western part continues to suffer from severe heatwaves. Districts such as Gaya, Buxar, Bhojpur, Rohtas, Patna, Nalanda, Jamui, Vaishali, Samastipur, and Begusarai are expected to face deadly heat conditions.
Severe Heatwave on Sunday
On Sunday, a severe heatwave was recorded in seventeen districts, including Buxar, Arwal, Bhojpur, Sheikhpura, Jamui, Vaishali, Gopalganj, Aurangabad, Nawada, Rajgir, Ziradei, Chhapra, Dehri, Vikramganj, and Gaya. Patna and Munger also reported heatwaves.
Buxar Records Highest Temperature
Buxar recorded the highest temperature in the state on Sunday, with the mercury rising to 46.4 degrees Celsius. Other districts such as Arwal, Bhojpur, Aurangabad, Vikramganj, and Dehri also experienced temperatures of 45 degrees Celsius or higher. Most of southern Bihar recorded temperatures between 43 and 46 degrees Celsius. The maximum temperature in heat-affected areas was 5 to 9 degrees above normal on Sunday.
