Bihar is witnessing an unusually early onset of summer as temperature records for February have already been shattered across several districts. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Patna, the mercury has crossed 32 degrees in the state capital while Kaimur recorded the highest temperature at 34.2 degrees. With a complete lack of rainfall and the presence of dry westerly winds, the heat is expected to intensify significantly in the coming weeks.
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What are the latest temperature records and forecasts for March?
The weather data for February 2026 shows a rapid warming trend where temperatures rose by nearly 12 degrees Celsius within a single month. This shift has not only affected daytime heat but also nighttime conditions, with Patna recording its highest February minimum temperature in 15 years. Meteorologists suggest that the first week of March will see another rise of 2 to 4 degrees, pushing the mercury towards the 40-degree mark in many districts after the Holi festival.
- Kaimur (Bhabua): Recorded the state highest temperature at 34.2 degrees Celsius.
- Patna: Maximum temperature crossed 32 degrees with minimums reaching 19 degrees.
- Dry Heat Alert: Persistent westerly winds and lack of Western Disturbances are keeping the weather dry.
- Rain Forecast: There is a 0% chance of rain for the next 10 days according to weather stations.
How will the lunar eclipse and heat affect Holi celebrations?
The celebration of Holi in 2026 faces two major challenges: the rising heat and a celestial event. Due to a total lunar eclipse scheduled for March 3, 2026, the main festival of colors has been traditionally shifted to March 4. The eclipse will start at 3:21 PM and end at 6:46 PM, with the religious Sutak period beginning at 6:20 AM. Consequently, Holika Dahan will be observed on the night of March 2. To manage the festival crowds and heat, the Patna administration has deployed magistrates at 94 locations to monitor security and enforce the liquor ban.
What are the impacts on health and the agriculture sector?
The early spike in temperature is causing significant concern for both public health and farming. Experts have issued advisories to mitigate the risks associated with the dry heat and rising mercury levels. Detailed impacts are listed below:
| Category | Impact and Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Experts warn of a decline in wheat and mustard yields as the grain-filling stage is cut short. |
| Public Health | Doctors advise staying hydrated and avoiding direct sunlight between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. |
| Environment | Above-normal heatwave days are predicted between March and May across East India. |
| Energy | Rising temperatures are expected to significantly increase the power demand for cooling. |
