Patna: Bihar is experiencing a significant and early onset of winter, marked by a considerable drop in temperatures statewide, even as attention is directed toward election outcomes. From Patna to Gaya and Rohtas, mornings have become noticeably colder, with the chill predicted to intensify in the next 72 hours. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 15.7°C and a maximum of 27.7°C in Patna, attributed to the influence of northwesterly winds entering Bihar. In various districts, nighttime temperatures have already decreased to about 11°C. Meteorologists link the abrupt cold to snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, the effects of which are now being felt in the plains.
The IMD has cautioned that 15 districts— including Patna, Gaya, Rohtas, Bhojpur, Kaimur, Buxar, Aurangabad, Arwal, Jehanabad, Nalanda, Nawada, Gopalganj, Siwan, and Saran—are likely to experience further temperature declines in the coming two to three days. Wind speeds could reach up to 30 kmph, further reducing night temperatures by an additional 1-2°C. In certain areas, temperatures may drop to 8-9°C, with experts warning that the current cold is only the start. Fog conditions are also expected to worsen, potentially reducing morning visibility in the Gangetic plains and parts of North Bihar to 50 metres, which could disrupt road and rail transport. Meteorologists have also noted a decline in air quality as dust and pollutants settle near the ground.
Daytime temperatures in southern Bihar are projected to remain between 26-28°C, while northern and northwestern regions may see highs of 28-30°C. Night temperatures in south-central and southwestern districts are likely to range from 11-14°C, dipping slightly lower in the northern parts of the state. In Patna, temperatures continue to stay below normal. Despite clear sunshine during the day, the dry air inhibits warmth retention, causing evenings to become sharply cold shortly after sunset. The region is expected to remain dry over the next week, with no rain anticipated. Residents should prepare for a pattern of mild daytime sun, increasing fog, and progressively colder nights as winter firmly establishes itself across Bihar.