School Closure Order: The Patna Meteorological Center has issued a red alert, predicting a severe heatwave in South Bihar over the next 48 hours. The alert highlights the possibility of a heatwave even during the night in areas such as Patna, Gaya, Nalanda, and Sheikhpura. Additionally, East Champaran, Nawada, Sheikhpura, Banka, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Khagaria, and Jamui may experience severe heatwave conditions for the next two days.
In response to the scorching temperatures in Patna, an order has been issued to close all government and private schools, from nursery to 12th grade, in the entire district until June 24. Anganwadi centers will also remain closed during this period. The district administration, under the guidance of DM Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh, has taken this step considering the potential adverse effects of high temperatures, especially in the afternoon, on the health and well-being of children.
The weather forecast indicates ongoing heavy rainfall in the state, which may result in severe heatwave conditions in districts like Purnia and Katihar on Saturday and Sunday. The monsoon is yet to fully arrive in many districts, and only scattered thundershowers are expected in areas such as Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Saharsa, and Madhepura during the next 48 hours.
Relief from the heatwave is anticipated to begin from June 19. Bihar has been experiencing a heatwave for the past 13 consecutive days, with hot winds blowing at speeds of 17 to 25 kilometers per hour. Instances of heat-related fatalities have been reported in locations like Rohtas’s Karhagar, Gaya, Jamui, and Banka, while many others continue to receive medical treatment. Despite the onset of monsoon five days ago, 19 districts are still grappling with the impact of the heatwave, with temperatures ranging between 42 to 44 degrees Celsius during the day and 30 to 35 degrees Celsius at night.
On Friday, severe heatwave conditions affected 14 districts, including Patna, where the maximum temperature reached approximately 44 degrees Celsius. The Meteorological Department has indicated the possibility of relief from June 19, along with moderate rainfall expected in 32 districts. This precipitation is anticipated to bring about a drop in temperatures.
