Patna: As November progresses, winter has established itself across Bihar. Active westerly winds and clear skies have caused night temperatures to drop, making Tuesday morning the coldest of the season thus far. In various districts, temperatures fell to 12°C, with daytime readings approximately two degrees below normal, indicating a clear transition to colder weather. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributes this temperature decline to ongoing westerly winds paired with clear skies, which allow heat to escape quickly at night. The department has predicted colder nights and foggy mornings in the upcoming days as humidity levels increase overnight. On Wednesday morning, dense fog enveloped much of North Bihar, reducing visibility and complicating early travel for office workers and students.
Meteorologists suggest that the mix of moisture-rich air and declining temperatures will lead to thicker fog in the coming days. The minimum temperature across the state on Tuesday ranged from 12.5°C to 17.2°C, with Aurangabad noted as the coldest district at 12.5°C. Motihari recorded the highest maximum temperature at 31°C. Nighttime temperatures in Gaya, Sheikhpura, Vaishali, Saharsa, Rajgir, Arwal, and Bikramganj were around 14°C or lower, leaving early risers feeling the chill despite daytime warmth. In Patna, the minimum temperature was 12.8°C, while the lowest recorded statewide was 11.5°C in Madhubani (West Champaran) and Nauhatta (Rohtas). The average wind speed was 5 km/h, mostly from the west.
The IMD has dismissed the possibility of rain in the next three to four days, forecasting dry and crisp winter weather throughout the state. Meteorologists anticipate further drops in temperature as westerly winds gain strength in the latter half of the week. “The cooling effect will increase over the next few days as wind patterns stabilize and humidity levels stay low,” a Met department official stated. The cold snap is already influencing daily routines in urban areas. Morning commuters have been seen in sweaters, mufflers, and jackets, while tea stalls and woollen shops have experienced increased business. Street vendors have reported a rise in sales of warm clothing and hand-knitted items.
The familiar winter pattern of fog at dawn, sunshine by noon, and early evening chill has returned to Bihar. As the IMD forecasts continued cooling, the season of quilts, tea, and early sunsets has officially commenced in the state.