Dense Fog Wreaks Havoc in Bihar: Yellow Alert Issued in 30 Districts

KKN Gurugram Desk | The weather in Bihar continues to challenge both residents and the meteorological department as fluctuating conditions dominate the region. While the afternoons bring sunlight, the nights plunge into biting cold, leaving residents grappling with extreme contrasts. On Wednesday morning, dense fog blanketed several districts in Bihar, leading the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a yellow alert for 30 districts. The department has predicted that foggy conditions will persist for the next two days.

Foggy Conditions Across Bihar

According to the IMD, dense to very dense fog is expected to prevail across most parts of Bihar, particularly in regions close to the Himalayan foothills. Cities like Patna, Nalanda, Bhagalpur, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, and Munger are likely to be significantly affected by fog, hampering visibility and disrupting daily activities.

In addition to dense fog, the minimum temperature has dropped in several areas, intensifying the chill. Residents of Patna and surrounding regions have reported feeling severe cold, or “kanakani,” especially during the early mornings and late evenings.

Yellow Alert in 30 Districts

The IMD has issued a yellow alert in approximately 30 districts across Bihar, warning residents to prepare for reduced visibility and travel disruptions. Key districts under the alert include:

• Katihar
• Kishanganj
• Araria
• Supaul
• Madhubani
• Patna
• Siwan
• Saran
• Motihari

These regions are expected to experience dense to very dense fog, particularly in the early morning hours, potentially causing challenges for commuters and transportation services.

Impact on Transportation and Daily Life

The dense fog has already begun to impact transportation across the state. Roads and highways have witnessed reduced visibility, leading to slower traffic and delays. Train services in Bihar are also likely to be affected, with fog potentially causing rescheduling and disruptions. Air travel in and out of Bihar’s airports may also experience delays due to poor visibility conditions.

Local residents, especially those commuting early in the morning, are advised to exercise caution while traveling. Reduced visibility not only hampers daily routines but also increases the risk of accidents on foggy roads.

Temperature Drop Adds to the Chill

In addition to foggy conditions, Bihar is also witnessing a significant drop in temperature, adding to the discomfort of residents. Minimum temperatures have fallen in at least nine districts, with residents reporting biting cold conditions, especially during the night.

Cities like Patna and its neighboring regions are experiencing this temperature dip, leaving many reliant on warm clothing and heating solutions to combat the chill. The combination of low temperatures and dense fog has created a challenging environment for the people of Bihar.

Safety Tips During Foggy Conditions

Given the yellow alert and prevailing weather conditions, residents are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe. Here are a few tips:

1. Travel Safely:
   • Use fog lights and drive slowly.
   • Avoid unnecessary travel during early morning and late evening hours when fog is at its peak.
2. Stay Warm:
   • Wear layered clothing to combat the cold.
   • Use heaters or other warming devices indoors but ensure proper ventilation.
3. Stay Informed:
   • Keep an eye on weather updates from reliable sources.
   • Follow guidelines issued by local authorities and the IMD.
4. Outdoor Activities:
   • Limit outdoor activities, especially for children and the elderly, during severe fog and cold conditions.

Foggy Days Ahead

The IMD’s forecast suggests that Bihar is likely to experience foggy mornings and chilly nights for at least the next two days. Regions near the Himalayan foothills, such as Araria, Supaul, and Kishanganj, are particularly vulnerable to very dense fog. These areas may also see longer durations of reduced visibility compared to other parts of the state.

Meanwhile, the state capital, Patna, and other districts like Bhagalpur and Nalanda will continue to witness similar conditions, with morning fog gradually lifting by midday. However, as the sun sets, the biting cold will return, making evenings and nights equally challenging.

Weather Conditions Across Neighboring Regions

The foggy weather isn’t limited to Bihar alone. Neighboring regions, particularly in North India, are also grappling with similar conditions. States like Uttar Pradesh and parts of West Bengal have reported dense fog and dipping temperatures, affecting transportation and daily routines.

The convergence of cold northwestern winds and the presence of moisture in the air are primary reasons for the formation of dense fog in these regions. Experts believe that these conditions may persist until a significant change in weather patterns occurs, such as rainfall or an increase in temperatures.

The ongoing dense fog and plummeting temperatures in Bihar have created a challenging situation for residents across the state. With a yellow alert issued in 30 districts, authorities and locals must stay vigilant and prepared for disruptions in daily life. While the fog is expected to linger for the next two days, staying informed and adopting safety measures can help mitigate risks and ensure safety during these harsh weather conditions.

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