The cold spell in Bihar is set to intensify over the weekend, with temperatures expected to fall further across the state. According to the latest weather forecast, both day and night temperatures may decline by three to four degrees Celsius during the next 48 hours. The prevailing conditions indicate that Bihar will continue to face severe winter weather, with cold wave–like situations likely to persist for at least a week.
Meteorological officials have warned that relief from the biting cold is unlikely in the immediate future. Cold northwesterly winds are continuing to affect the region, leading to a sharp dip in temperatures. These winds are expected to remain active, contributing to prolonged chilly conditions across most districts.
Orange Alert Issued for Dense Fog in 17 Districts
The weather department has issued an orange alert for dense fog in 17 districts of Bihar for Saturday. The alert highlights the possibility of extremely poor visibility during morning and late-night hours. Districts under the orange alert include Kishanganj, Araria, Supaul, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Sheohar, East Champaran, West Champaran, Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Bhojpur, Buxar, Kaimur, Rohtas, Aurangabad, and Arwal.
In addition to these districts, a yellow alert has been issued for fog in several other parts of the state, including Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Bhagalpur, and Purnea. Residents in these areas have been advised to remain cautious, especially during early morning travel.
Cold Northwestern Winds Driving Severe Chill
Meteorologists have attributed the intense cold to persistent northwesterly winds sweeping across the Gangetic plains. These winds are lowering both minimum and maximum temperatures in Bihar. From Saturday onwards, minimum temperatures in many districts may drop by two to three degrees Celsius. A further fall of two to four degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures is expected from Sunday.
As temperatures continue to decline, the likelihood of cold wave conditions is increasing. The combination of falling temperatures and strong winds is creating harsh winter conditions, particularly during nighttime and early morning hours. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and children, are being advised to take additional precautions.
Night Temperatures Remain Below 10 Degrees in Many Areas
On Friday, as many as 21 districts in Bihar recorded minimum temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius. This trend is expected to continue over the coming days. Several districts in the northern and northeastern parts of the state are likely to experience dense fog at multiple locations.
According to the forecast, districts such as Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Madhubani, Supaul, Araria, and Kishanganj may witness prolonged fog cover. Western Bihar is also expected to see fog at some places, while parts of south-central and southeastern Bihar may experience fog at isolated locations.
Visibility Concerns as Dense Fog Spreads
Dense fog is emerging as a major concern across Bihar, particularly for road and rail traffic. In several districts, visibility levels are expected to drop significantly during morning hours. Drivers have been advised to use fog lights and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of extremely low visibility.
The situation remains especially challenging in urban centers, where traffic congestion combined with poor visibility could increase the risk of accidents. Authorities are closely monitoring conditions and may issue additional advisories if the situation worsens.
Gaya Records Zero Visibility for the First Time This Season
One of the most striking developments of the current winter spell has been the visibility recorded in Gaya. For the first time this season, the city reported zero-meter visibility due to extremely dense fog. This marks a significant escalation in winter severity and highlights the unusual intensity of the fog episode.
In Patna and several other cities, dense fog was observed during morning hours. However, conditions improved slightly by afternoon as sunlight emerged, providing temporary relief to residents. Despite the brief sunshine, temperatures remained low, and the overall cold conditions persisted.
Temperature Range Across Bihar Remains Wide
Weather data from Friday showed that minimum temperatures across Bihar ranged between 5.1 and 13.1 degrees Celsius. Maximum temperatures varied from 16.3 to 24.2 degrees Celsius. The coldest location in the state was Agwanpur in Saharsa district, where the minimum temperature dropped to 5.1 degrees Celsius.
Kishanganj recorded the highest maximum temperature at 24.2 degrees Celsius. Despite this variation, most regions experienced a noticeable chill due to low night temperatures and reduced daytime warmth.
Administrative Response to Severe Cold
The intensifying cold has already prompted administrative action in some districts. In Patna, schools up to Class V have been closed until January 5 due to severe cold conditions. Authorities may take similar measures in other districts if temperatures continue to fall and fog conditions worsen.
Health officials have advised people to limit outdoor exposure during early morning and late-night hours. Special attention is being given to shelters for the homeless, as prolonged cold wave conditions can pose serious health risks.
Cold Wave Conditions Likely to Persist
Meteorological experts believe that the current weather pattern may continue for several days. With no immediate change expected in wind direction or intensity, Bihar is likely to remain under the grip of severe winter conditions. Dense fog, low visibility, and falling temperatures are expected to define the state’s weather through the coming week.
Residents are advised to stay updated with local weather advisories and take necessary precautions. Warm clothing, limited outdoor activity during peak cold hours, and cautious travel are being strongly recommended as Bihar braces for an extended spell of intense winter.
