Patna: The mercury in Patna has crossed the 40°C mark over the past few days. Several districts in Bihar are also experiencing heatwave conditions. With temperatures continuing to rise, many schools across the state have revised their timings to ensure the safety of children.On Tuesday, more than 15 districts recorded maximum temperatures above 40°C. Gaya registered the state’s highest maximum temperature at 42.7°C, while Patna recorded 41.5°C.Residents have been advised to avoid prolonged exposure to heat, wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose cotton clothes and cover their heads with a cloth, hat or umbrella while stepping out. According to the bulletin issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Patna, no significant change in maximum temperatures is expected across most parts of the state over the next three to four days. In the northwestern, southwestern and south-central regions, temperatures are likely to remain 3-4°C above normal, frequently crossing the 40°C mark. Minimum temperatures are also expected to remain stable.A yellow warning for heatwave conditions is in place till Thursday, with a likely shift in weather patterns towards the weekend. Forecasters have predicted gusty winds and thunderstorms for Friday and Saturday. While heatwave conditions may persist in southwestern districts, some relief is expected as moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal move in.Meteorologist Sanjay Kumar from IMD Patna said the southwestern districts, including Buxar, Bhojpur, Rohtas, Bhabhua, Aurangabad and Arwal, have been most affected by dry westerly winds, leading to heatwave-like conditions. However, the forecast of thunderstorms and winds is expected to stabilise temperatures in the northeast, southeast and north-central districts. Though the southwest and south-central areas may not receive direct thunderstorm activity, changes in wind patterns are likely to bring some relief.
