Patna: The southwest monsoon’s advance across Bihar has hit a pause after entering parts of north and east Bihar with strong dry westerly winds delaying its progression into the remaining regions of the state. The slowdown has led to a renewed spell of heat, particularly in central and western Bihar, where temperatures have once again crossed the 40°C mark.Seven districts recorded maximum temperatures of 40°C or above on Tuesday. Patna registered a maximum temperature of 40°C, while Bhabua in Kaimur district emerged as the hottest place in the state at 42.2°C.The India Meteorological Department (IMD), Patna, had indicated on June 12 that conditions were becoming favourable for the monsoon to advance into the rest of Bihar within two to three days. However, IMD meteorologist Kumar Gaurav said persistent westerly winds originating from north-western parts of the country, including Rajasthan, continue to dominate weather conditions across large parts of Bihar, preventing further monsoon progress.The delay comes at a time when widespread monsoon activity is usually expected across the state. While the monsoon entered Bihar’s northeastern districts earlier than usual this year, its advance has since remained sluggish.According to Gaurav, the prevailing westerlies are carrying hot and dry air into Bihar, creating heatwave-like conditions and weakening the moisture-laden monsoon currents from the Bay of Bengal. He said the situation is likely to improve only when easterly winds strengthen and begin to dominate.Even as districts such as Kishanganj, Supaul, Purnia and Araria continue to receive southwest monsoon rainfall, parts of Siwan and Gopalganj have been witnessing pre-monsoon thunderstorms. Meteorologists attributed this to local weather systems generated by the interaction of easterly and westerly winds.Gaurav said the southwest monsoon could advance into the remaining parts of Bihar over the next three to four days. A strengthening of easterly winds is expected to revive monsoon circulation and bring much-needed rainfall to areas still reeling under intense heat.
