Is Bihar Facing a Severe Cold Wave? Red Alert Issued in 12 Districts
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Severe cold wave affecting Bihar
- Red alert issued for 12 districts
- Significant temperature drops recorded
- Dense fog causing travel hazards
- Precautions recommended for residents
Patna, Dec 20 (NationPress) Bihar is currently enduring the harsh effects of a severe cold wave, leading to a significant decline in both daytime and nighttime temperatures that is disrupting everyday activities across the state.
The situation has been exacerbated by thick fog, frigid winds, and escalating air pollution, compelling residents to remain indoors and affecting their daily routines.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this cold spell is predicted to last until December 22, with a chance of further temperature drops.
The IMD has issued a red alert for 12 districts in North Bihar, cautioning against extremely dense fog and severe cold conditions. Additionally, a yellow alert has been announced for 24 other districts, including Patna, advising residents to be wary of cold-day conditions.
The districts suffering the most severe impact include West Champaran, East Champaran, Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Madhubani, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, Vaishali, Saran, Siwan, and Gopalganj.
In these regions, extremely dense fog is anticipated during morning and night hours, rendering road travel highly perilous.
A yellow alert for cold-day conditions has been issued for 24 districts, including Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur, and Purnea. Although these districts are facing less severe conditions than those under the red alert, the effects of the cold and fog are clearly noticeable.
Continuous westerly winds have heightened the chill, causing residents to rely heavily on heaters and bonfires. School hours have been adjusted in several districts to shield children from the extreme cold and fog.
The fog cover since early morning has led to reduced visibility on roads and streets, resulting in traffic accidents in certain areas.
In one incident, four officers, including a DSP and an inspector, sustained injuries when their vehicle collided with a truck in the Mohania block of Kaimur district on Friday night around 8:45 PM.
One of the injured has been critically hurt and transported to Varanasi for medical care.
Notable temperature declines have also been recorded in districts such as Gaya, Chhapra, and Jehanabad, and worsening weather conditions are anticipated in the coming days.
The Meteorological Department has urged residents to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel during early morning and night hours, and adopt protective measures against cold-related health risks.