KKN Gurugram Desk | High humidity continues to cause discomfort across Bihar, especially in south, north-central, and northwest regions Rainfall and strong winds bring temporary relief to parts of Patna late Monday night Yellow alert for lightning and thunderstorms issued in Kishanganj, Araria, and Supaul A drop of 2–3°C in maximum and minimum temperatures is expected between Friday and SundayTemperature felt significantly higher due to humidity, reaching perceived levels close to 50°C in some areas

Worsening Weather Conditions Across Bihar Due to Heat and Humidity

Bihar is currently experiencing severe discomfort due to a combination of high temperatures and extreme humidity. The weather on Monday proved especially challenging for residents of Patna and surrounding regions, where the oppressive conditions led to a perceived temperature far beyond the recorded readings.

According to the latest meteorological data, southern Bihar, as well as north-central and northwestern districts, are facing intense humid heat, commonly known as “suffocating heat.” This condition is expected to persist in the coming days.

Monday’s Heat Index and Temperature Overview

On Monday, May 12, Patna recorded a maximum temperature of 39°C. However, with a humidity level peaking at 90%, residents felt a heat index similar to 49–51°C. This significant difference between actual and felt temperatures has raised public health concerns, particularly for outdoor workers and elderly citizens.

The minimum temperature stood at 29.5°C, reflecting a marginal rise of 0.1°C compared to the previous day. Though cloud cover during the day led to a slight reduction in solar intensity, the high moisture content in the air offset any potential comfort.

Across Bihar:

• Motihari recorded the state’s highest temperature at 41°C

• Madhepura reported the lowest at 24.1°C

Late-Night Rain Brings Short-Lived Relief in Patna

Patna residents experienced some relief late Monday night when thunderstorms, gusty winds, and rainfall hit parts of the city around 11:30 PM. The sudden change in weather brought down the oppressive heat momentarily.

However, the cooling effect is expected to be temporary, as forecasters predict a return to humid conditions until the next major weather system influences the region.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed this weather fluctuation as part of a localized convective activity, common during pre-monsoon months in eastern India.

Weather Forecast: What to Expect This Week in Bihar

Tuesday (May 13) Outlook:

• Partly cloudy skies in Patna and nearby regions

• Relative humidity expected to remain above 50%, maintaining discomfort levels

• Slight drop in temperature may occur due to residual cloud activity

Midweek Forecast:

• No significant rainfall is expected until Thursday

• Dry and humid conditions will prevail, especially in districts like Gaya, Nalanda, Muzaffarpur, and Siwan

Weekend Outlook (May 17–19):

• A gradual drop of 2–3°C in both maximum and minimum temperatures is expected

• Some areas might experience isolated showers, depending on wind patterns and local cloud formation

• Comfort levels may slightly improve, but humidity will continue to be a key discomfort factor

Yellow Alert for Lightning in Three Districts

The IMD has issued a Yellow Alert for lightning, thunderstorm activity, and wind gusts ranging between 30 to 40 km/h in specific districts:

• Kishanganj

• Araria

• Supaul

Residents in these areas are advised to:

• Stay indoors during lightning and storm activity

• Avoid open fields and tall structures

• Refrain from using mobile phones or electrical appliances during thunderstorms

These precautionary steps are vital, as lightning-related fatalities are a known seasonal hazard in Bihar, especially in rural and agricultural zones.

Why the Discomfort Is So High: Understanding the Heat Index

Even when actual temperatures are in the high 30s, the combination of heat and moisture significantly raises the “feels-like” temperature. This metric, also known as the Heat Index, considers both temperature and humidity to assess how hot it actually feels to the human body.

For example:

• At 39°C with 90% humidity, the heat index can reach nearly 50°C

• This can cause dehydration, heat cramps, and even heatstroke in extreme cases

Doctors and weather experts recommend:

• Staying hydrated

• Avoiding direct exposure between 12 PM and 4 PM

• Using loose, breathable clothing

• Ensuring fans, coolers, or air conditioning are used where possible

Climate Pattern Analysis: Why Bihar Is Heating Up

Climatic Shifts in North India

Bihar, like much of northern India, is experiencing earlier and longer heatwaves due to changing climate patterns. Experts attribute this to:

• Delayed monsoon winds

• Reduced pre-monsoon rainfall

• Urban heat island effects, particularly in cities like Patna

Meteorological Indicators to Watch:

• Southwest monsoon onset in Kerala, usually by June 1st, which influences Bihar’s weather after 10–15 days

• Movement of Western Disturbances and their interaction with easterly winds

• Cyclonic circulations forming in the Bay of Bengal

All of these factors contribute to short-term fluctuations like sudden rainfall, lightning activity, and shifts in temperature.

Districts Under Monitoring for Severe Weather Conditions

The following regions are under active weather monitoring due to potential storm and lightning activity combined with high humidity:

• Patna

• Gaya

• Kishanganj

• Araria

• Supaul

• Muzaffarpur

• Vaishali

• Samastipur

District administrations have been alerted, and disaster management authorities are on standby to respond to weather-related incidents.

Impact on Daily Life: Heat and Health Concerns Rising

The rising temperatures and high humidity are not just a weather issue but a public health concern in Bihar.

Key affected sectors include:

• Agriculture: Heat stress impacts field workers and livestock

• Education: Schools may consider adjusting timing or temporary closures

• Healthcare: Hospitals report a rise in heatstroke and dehydration cases

Government advisories are urging:

• Farmers to avoid afternoon exposure

• Parents to ensure children stay hydrated

• Construction workers to take scheduled breaks

As Bihar braces for more hot and humid days, the public is advised to stay updated on weather bulletins, especially regarding lightning alerts and temperature spikes.

With a projected slight temperature drop expected by the weekend, conditions may ease slightly. However, the real respite is likely only after the arrival of the monsoon, tentatively expected in mid to late June.

Until then, caution, hydration, and weather awareness remain the best tools for dealing with the heat.