Is a Cold Wave Taking Over Bihar? Patna Records Temperature Drop for 5th Day in a Row
Synopsis
Patna faces a severe cold wave, with temperatures dropping for five days straight. The IMD has issued cold day alerts, and schools across several districts are closing to protect children’s health. The ongoing weather conditions are disrupting transport services significantly, prompting advisories for passengers.
Key Takeaways
Patna has recorded a temperature drop for five consecutive days.
The IMD has issued a cold day warning for the region.
Schools in several districts are closed to protect children.
Transportation services are facing significant disruptions.
Dry weather is forecasted for the following six days.
Patna, Dec 22 (NationPress) The capital of Bihar has experienced a decline in minimum temperature for the fifth consecutive day on Monday, attributed to a lack of sunshine the previous day that exacerbated the cold weather. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cold day alert for Patna.
The IMD forecasts dense fog during the morning in Patna, which might gradually clear as the day progresses, although cloudy conditions are expected to linger.
On Monday morning, the city was shrouded in moderate fog. During this time, the maximum temperature saw a slight increase of 0.2 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature dropped by 0.3 degrees, leading to recorded temperatures of 19 degrees maximum and 8 degrees minimum Celsius.
The weather officials noted that cold day conditions might continue in isolated areas of western and central Bihar on Monday. Light to moderate fog is anticipated across most districts, along with ongoing cloud cover.
On Tuesday, dense fog is expected at a few locations in the northern and southwestern districts, while light to moderate fog may persist elsewhere.
No significant variations in maximum or minimum temperatures are predicted over the upcoming two days.
The IMD also forecasts dry weather across the state for the next six days.
The effects of the cold and fog have been visibly impacting the transport system. Rail services have been greatly disrupted, with many long-distance trains passing through Patna running 10 to 20 hours late, resulting in substantial inconvenience for travelers.
At Patna Airport, poor visibility led to the cancellation of five flights, while other flights faced considerable delays.
Travelers are advised to check schedules ahead of time and stay vigilant until weather conditions improve.
In Sheohar, where the cold wave has persisted for over a week, District Magistrate Pratibha Rani ordered the closure of all government and private schools until December 23.
This decision was made considering the declining temperatures and the health of children.
The closure applies to Classes 1 to 8, while teachers are required to attend school regularly.
Due to the severe cold wave affecting Bihar, district administrations in Araria, Siwan, Bhojpur, Gopalganj, and Sitamarhi have mandated the closure of all government and private schools until December 24.
In Muzaffarpur, instead of a complete closure, school timings have been altered.
Academic activities in both government and private schools will now operate only from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
In Gopalganj district, the administration has suspended academic activities in all government and private schools, pre-schools, and Anganwadi centres from December 22 to December 24, citing the health and safety of children amid the cold wave. However, Classes 9 and above will function only between 10:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Point of View
The ongoing cold wave in Bihar highlights the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions. The government's proactive measures to close schools demonstrate a commitment to public health. However, the impact on transportation points to a need for improved infrastructure to cope with such climatic challenges.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the drop in temperatures in Patna?
The drop in temperatures is primarily due to the absence of sunshine and ongoing cold conditions, compounded by dense fog.
How long is the cold wave expected to last?
The cold wave is expected to persist for several days, with no significant changes in temperatures anticipated over the next two days.
Which schools are closed due to the cold wave?
All government and private schools in various districts including Sheohar, Araria, Siwan, Bhojpur, Gopalganj, and Sitamarhi are closed until December 24.
What should travelers expect in terms of transportation?
Travelers should expect significant delays in rail services and possible flight cancellations due to poor visibility caused by dense fog.
What measures are being taken to ensure children's health during this cold wave?
Schools are closing in affected areas, and academic schedules are being adjusted to protect children's health during the severe cold wave.
