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Bihar Cold Wave Alert: IMD Warns 27 Districts Amid Dense Fog and Accidents

A severe cold wave has descended upon Bihar, with the IMD sounding the alarm for 27 districts. Temperatures have taken a sharp dive, with Patna seeing a significant drop and cold persisting all day due to damp conditions. The situation is worsened by dense fog, which is reducing visibility and has already caused tragic road accidents. Authorities are now on high alert, implementing measures like public bonfires to help residents cope.

Key Points: IMD Issues Cold Wave Alert for 27 Bihar Districts as Temperatures Plunge

  • IMD issues cold wave alert for 27 districts, warning of intensifying conditions over 48 hours
  • Patna's temperature dropped 6°C in 24 hours with minimal daily variation
  • Dense fog causes poor visibility, leading to fatal road accidents in multiple districts
  • District administrations arrange bonfires and boost emergency measures for public safety
2 min read

Severe cold wave grips Bihar; IMD issues alert for 27 districts

A severe cold wave grips Bihar with dense fog and plunging temperatures. IMD issues alerts for 27 districts, warning of intensified conditions and travel hazards.

"This winter is likely to be colder than last year due to the combined effect of westerly winds, high surface moisture, and low wind speeds. - India Meteorological Department"

Patna, Dec 19

A severe cold wave has tightened its grip across Bihar, with dense fog shrouding mornings and temperatures plunging sharply across the state. Even during daylight hours, damp conditions are intensifying the chill, making the cold persist throughout the day.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cold wave and cold day alert for 27 districts, warning that the next 48 hours will be crucial as cold conditions are expected to intensify further.

In Patna, the maximum temperature dropped by nearly six degrees Celsius within 24 hours. The city recorded a maximum of 16.9 degrees C and a minimum of 14.0 degrees C, with a narrow diurnal variation of just 2.9 degrees C, allowing the cold to linger all day. Brief spells of sunshine in some areas failed to provide any significant relief.

According to the IMD, this winter is likely to be colder than last year due to the combined effect of westerly winds, high surface moisture, and low wind speeds, which are also contributing to dense to very dense fog. The department has forecast particularly dense fog on December 20 and has urged residents to remain cautious.

Districts expected to be most affected by the cold wave include Sitamarhi, East and West Champaran, Gopalganj, Sheohar, Siwan, Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Samastipur, Buxar, Bhojpur, Patna, Nalanda, Arwal, Rohtas, Kaimur (Bhabua), Aurangabad, Gaya, Jehanabad, Nawada, Sheikhpura, Darbhanga, Begusarai and Madhubani.

Dense fog has severely reduced road visibility, raising serious safety concerns during morning hours. Reports from districts such as Gopalganj and Buxar indicate that poor visibility has led to multiple road accidents, resulting in several deaths and injuries.

In response, district administrations have been placed on high alert. Measures, including the arrangement of bonfires at public places and enhanced emergency preparedness, are being implemented to protect vulnerable populations.

The IMD has advised residents to exercise extreme caution while travelling, particularly during early morning hours, as cold wave conditions are expected to persist over the next few days.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
The visibility issue is terrifying. My husband commutes early for work in Patna, and I'm constantly worried. Please, if you're driving, use fog lights and drive slowly. Safety first.
A
Ananya R
It's the dampness that makes it unbearable. The cold gets into your bones. Kudos to IMD for the detailed forecast. Hope the district administrations are proactive with relief measures, especially in rural areas.
V
Vikram M
Every year it's the same story. The alert is fine, but where is the long-term planning for homeless people? Bonfires are a temporary fix. We need more permanent night shelters.
D
David E
The narrow temperature variation of just 2.9 degrees in Patna is scientifically fascinating but must be horrible to live through. No relief even in the day. My thoughts are with everyone affected.
P
Priya S
Please check on your neighbors, especially those living alone. A cup of hot chai can make a big difference. Let's look out for each other during this tough time. 🤲

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