Fog in Patna. File Picture
By Neeraj KumarÂ
Patna: After Makar Sankranti, the weather in Bihar is once again showing signs of a change. With rainfall expected in several parts of the state, a fresh drop in temperature is likely, intensifying the cold.
According to the Patna Meteorological Centre, the coming days will be crucial from a weather perspective. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall in many districts. Following the rain, both maximum and minimum temperatures may fall by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius, making mornings and nights noticeably colder.
In the state capital Patna, skies are expected to remain overcast with chances of light rain. Gaya and Muzaffarpur may witness drizzle accompanied by cold winds, while Bhagalpur and Darbhanga are also likely to experience a sharper chill due to falling temperatures.
In north Bihar, rising moisture levels could lead to fog and mist, whereas in south Bihar, post-rain conditions may result in a stronger cold wave. The impact of the cold is expected to be more pronounced in riverine belts and open areas.
Although winter usually begins to ease after Makar Sankranti, the anticipated rainfall is likely to push temperatures down once again. The increased cold may disrupt morning and evening routines, forcing people to rely on warm clothing. The weather department has advised elderly citizens, children and those suffering from illnesses to take special precautions.
The change in weather may also affect rabi crops. The Patna Meteorological Centre has urged farmers to plan irrigation, harvesting and spraying activities in accordance with weather conditions, and to take steps to protect crops in case of sudden rainfall.
Over the next 48 to 72 hours, Bihar is expected to witness unsettled weather, with intermittent cloud cover and light rain at isolated places. The department attributed the conditions to a cyclonic circulation over the south-eastern Bay of Bengal at around 3.1 km above sea level, which is likely to strengthen upper-level winds and further enhance the chill.
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