On December 15, 2025, cold weather conditions in Bihar worsened, leading to dense fog in many regions, including Buxar, Patna, Begusarai, and Ara. The thick fog, which reduced visibility to dangerously low levels, caused several disruptions and raised concerns over road safety. According to the Meteorological Department, these foggy conditions are expected to continue for the next three to four days, affecting daily life and transportation.
In Buxar, the dense fog caused visibility to drop to just 20 meters, resulting in a collision between a car and a truck. Fortunately, all individuals in the car escaped without injury. The car involved in the accident was reportedly displaying a Health Department sticker, and the passengers were returning from Varanasi when the incident occurred. The collision caused a brief disruption to traffic in the area, as the poor visibility hindered movement. Authorities were quick to manage the situation, but road safety remained a critical concern during the foggy conditions.
The Meteorological Department has warned that similar conditions will persist in the coming days. Foggy weather is expected to continue in many parts of Bihar, with visibility likely to remain between 150 and 200 meters in several districts. The department has advised commuters to remain cautious while traveling, especially in the early morning hours when the fog is densest.
Cold Weather and Declining Temperatures Across Bihar
The cold wave in Bihar intensified on Sunday, December 15. As temperatures dropped significantly, residents of the state experienced an abrupt shift in weather conditions. The lowest temperature in Bihar was recorded in Kishanganj, where the mercury dipped to 8 degrees Celsius. Patna, the state capital, registered a minimum temperature of around 14 degrees Celsius. These temperatures were part of a wider trend across Bihar, with minimum temperatures fluctuating between 0.5 and 1.5 degrees Celsius over the last 24 hours. The continuous drop in temperatures indicates a persistent cold wave that is likely to continue in the coming days.
In addition to the cold temperatures, the air quality in Bihar’s capital has also deteriorated significantly. Official reports show that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Patna fluctuated between 151 and 333, placing the air quality in the “moderate” to “very poor” categories. Areas surrounding Patna Airport and the Veterinary College have consistently reported worsening air quality levels. This pollution, combined with the intense cold, poses serious health risks for residents, particularly those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Impact of Cold Weather on Public Health and Safety
The ongoing cold weather and poor air quality in Bihar have raised significant health concerns, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues. The low visibility due to fog and the deteriorating air quality are also creating hazardous conditions for commuters and pedestrians. As the cold wave continues, health experts have stressed the importance of taking extra precautions, particularly during the morning and evening hours when the cold is most intense.
The state government has also taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of schoolchildren during this cold wave. Schools in Patna and other parts of Bihar have been directed to start after 8:30 AM until December 18, to protect children from the early morning chill. This decision comes in response to the ongoing cold conditions, which have made it difficult for students to travel safely to school in the early hours of the morning.
The Meteorological Department has predicted that the cold wave may intensify further in the coming days, with no rainfall expected in the state. While the daytime may see some sunshine, temperatures will remain close to normal levels, with no significant relief from the cold expected. Residents have been urged to take necessary precautions, especially when traveling in the early morning hours when the fog is thickest.
Safety Measures and Health Precautions
Given the severe weather conditions, the Meteorological Centre has issued a safety advisory urging residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the cold. The department particularly emphasized the importance of safeguarding elderly individuals and children, as prolonged exposure to the cold and poor air quality could lead to serious health problems, including respiratory issues, hypothermia, and other cold-related ailments.
For commuters, it is essential to drive cautiously during the morning hours when the fog is thickest. Reduced visibility can make it challenging to spot obstacles or other vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents. The authorities have advised drivers to reduce speed, use fog lights, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to prevent accidents in such conditions. Pedestrians are also advised to wear warm clothing and avoid long exposure to the cold during early mornings and late evenings.
Outlook for the Coming Days
Looking ahead, the weather conditions are expected to remain challenging in Bihar for the next several days. Dense fog will likely persist in many districts, making it difficult for people to navigate through the streets. With no significant rainfall expected, the foggy and cold conditions are anticipated to continue, further straining public health and road safety.
The Meteorological Department has also cautioned that the air quality in Patna and surrounding areas could worsen if the fog persists, particularly with the limited dispersion of pollutants due to the stagnant weather. As the cold wave continues to grip Bihar, local authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to issue advisories to help residents stay safe.
In summary, the dense fog and dropping temperatures across Bihar are creating difficult and potentially dangerous conditions for residents. While the cold weather shows no signs of letting up in the coming days, authorities are urging the public to take extra precautions to ensure their safety and well-being during this challenging period.
