Bhagalpur Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – India

Summer (March-June):
Bhagalpur experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, with the summer months being hot and humid. The average temperature during this period ranges between 25°C (77°F) and 40°C (104°F). The heat can be intense, especially during the months of April and May, when temperatures can soar to over 45°C (113°F). The humidity levels are also high, making it feel even more uncomfortable. Precipitation is scarce during this season, with only occasional thunderstorms providing some relief from the heat.

Monsoon (July-September):
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Bhagalpur, with the average precipitation ranging between 800 mm (31 inches) and 1,200 mm (47 inches). The rains typically start in June and last until September. The city experiences frequent thunderstorms and downpours during this period, which can lead to flooding in some areas. The average temperature during the monsoon months ranges between 28°C (82°F) and 33°C (91°F). The humidity levels remain high, but the rains provide some relief from the oppressive heat.

Seasonal Variations

Bhagalpur, a city in the Indian state of Bihar, experiences significant seasonal variations in average temperature. The hottest month is May, with average highs reaching 38°C (100°F) and lows around 28°C (82°F). During the monsoon season, which typically lasts from June to September, the average temperature drops slightly, with highs around 33°C (91°F) and lows of 26°C (79°F). The winter months, from November to February, are relatively mild, with average highs of 25°C (77°F) and lows of 12°C (54°F).

Annual Trends

Overall, the average temperature in Bhagalpur varies between 25°C and 38°C throughout the year. The coldest month is January, with average temperatures of 25°C (77°F), while the hottest month is May, with average temperatures of 38°C (100°F). The annual mean temperature in Bhagalpur is approximately 32°C (89°F). Due to its subtropical location, Bhagalpur has a humid climate, with high humidity levels throughout the year.

Types of Clouds in Bhagalpur, India

Bhagalpur, a city in the state of Bihar, India, experiences a wide range of cloud formations throughout the year. During the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons, Cumulus and Cumulonimbus clouds are common. Cumulus clouds appear as puffy, cotton-like formations that often indicate fair weather. Cumulonimbus clouds are characterized by their anvil-shaped tops and can bring thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.

During the post-monsoon and winter months, Cirrus and Stratus clouds are prevalent. Cirrus clouds are wispy, high-altitude clouds composed of ice crystals and give the sky a hazy appearance. Stratus clouds form a uniform, gray layer that can cover the entire sky and often bring overcast or drizzly conditions. Bhagalpur also experiences Nimbostratus clouds, which are thick, dark clouds that produce steady precipitation.

Annual Precipitation Patterns

Bhagalpur experiences a distinct seasonal pattern of precipitation, characterized by a monsoon season from June to September. During this period, the city receives a substantial amount of rainfall, with an average of over 1,000 mm annually. The wettest month is July, when an average of over 300 mm of rain falls. The pre-monsoon period from March to May also contributes significantly to the city’s precipitation, while the post-monsoon and winter months are relatively dry.

Climate Factors Influencing Precipitation

The monsoon season in Bhagalpur is driven by the southwest monsoon winds that originate over the Indian Ocean. These winds carry moisture-laden air, which condenses and precipitates as rain when they encounter the hills surrounding the region. Additionally, the city’s location in the Gangetic Plains contributes to its high precipitation levels. The flat terrain allows the monsoon winds to penetrate far inland, resulting in heavy rainfall during the summer months.

Annual Rainfall Pattern

Bhagalpur, nestled in the northern state of Bihar, India, experiences a distinct pattern of rainfall throughout the year. The city falls under the humid subtropical climate zone, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Monsoon season, from June to September, dominates Bhagalpur’s rainfall patterns, bringing the majority of the annual precipitation. During this period, heavy downpours occur frequently, often accompanied by thunderstorms. The average annual rainfall in Bhagalpur ranges from 1,000 to 1,200 millimeters, with the months of July and August receiving the highest amounts.

Seasonal Variations

Apart from the monsoon season, Bhagalpur experiences seasonal variations in rainfall. Winter months, from December to February, receive minimal rainfall, with occasional light showers or drizzle. The pre-monsoon period, from March to May, witnesses a gradual increase in precipitation as temperatures rise. During this time, thunderstorms can occur, accompanied by moderate to heavy rainfall. The post-monsoon period, from October to November, brings a respite from the heavy rains, with precipitation gradually decreasing as the weather transitions into the cooler months.

Exceptional Snowfall in Bhagalpur

A rare and extraordinary snowfall blanketed the city of Bhagalpur, India, on January 15, 2018. The event, which marked the first snowfall in the area in decades, captivated residents and drew national attention. The snow accumulation, reaching up to four inches in some places, transformed the landscape into a picturesque winter wonderland. The snowfall brought joy and excitement to the locals, who built snowmen, enjoyed snow fights, and captured the breathtaking scenery in photographs.

Impact on Daily Life and Infrastructure

The snowfall significantly impacted daily life in Bhagalpur. Schools and colleges closed, and transportation was disrupted due to snow-covered roads. The sudden and heavy snowfall posed challenges for the local infrastructure. Power outages occurred in several areas, as snow-laden branches weighed down on power lines. Emergency services worked tirelessly to clear the snow from roads and public spaces, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. The snowfall also caused crop damage in the surrounding agricultural areas, raising concerns among farmers.

Sunrise and Sunset

Bhagalpur, located in the eastern Indian state of Bihar, experiences distinct sunrise and sunset times throughout the year. During the summer months (March to May), the sun rises around 5:00 AM and sets around 6:30 PM, providing approximately 13 hours of daylight. As the year progresses, sunrise gradually shifts later, reaching its latest point in late June or early July, when the sun rises around 5:30 AM. Sunset also occurs later during this time, around 7:00 PM.

During the winter months (November to February), the sun rises at approximately 5:30 AM and sets around 5:30 PM, resulting in shorter days with only about 10 hours of daylight. The shortest day of the year occurs in late December or early January, when the sun rises around 6:00 AM and sets around 5:00 PM.

Visibility and Appearance

In Bhagalpur, India, the moon’s visibility and appearance vary throughout the lunar cycle. During the new moon phase, the moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun, making it invisible from Bhagalpur. As the moon progresses through the waxing crescent and first quarter phases, it gradually becomes more visible, appearing as a thin crescent or half-circle. During the full moon phase, the moon is fully illuminated and appears as a bright, full circle.

The moon’s visibility and appearance can also be affected by atmospheric conditions. On clear nights, the moon is typically more visible and brighter. However, clouds, haze, and air pollution can reduce the moon’s visibility and alter its appearance, making it appear dimmer or obscured. During periods of heavy cloud cover, the moon may not be visible at all from Bhagalpur. Additionally, the moon’s position in the sky changes throughout the night, rising in the east and setting in the west.

Seasonal Variations in Humidity

Bhagalpur, a city in the eastern Indian state of Bihar, experiences distinct seasonal variations in humidity. During the hot and humid summer months (March to June), the average humidity levels range from 60% to 80%. The high humidity combined with scorching temperatures can make the weather feel extremely uncomfortable and oppressive.

In contrast, during the cooler winter months (November to February), humidity levels drop significantly, averaging between 40% and 60%. The lower humidity levels provide some respite from the oppressive summer conditions and make for more comfortable weather. The diurnal variation in humidity is also noticeable, with higher humidity levels in the mornings and evenings and lower levels during the day.

Impact on Health and Well-being

High humidity levels can have a negative impact on human health and well-being. Prolonged exposure to high humidity can lead to heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat stroke. The moist air makes it difficult for sweat to evaporate from the skin, which reduces the body’s ability to cool itself down. Additionally, high humidity levels can promote the growth of mold and mildew, which can trigger respiratory problems in sensitive individuals. The fluctuating humidity levels in Bhagalpur can also exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies.

Wind Patterns and Climate:

The wind patterns in Bhagalpur, India, are largely influenced by the monsoon seasons. During the summer monsoon (June to September), strong southwesterly winds prevail, bringing heavy rainfall to the region. These winds are moisture-laden and often cause thunderstorms and other forms of precipitation. During the winter monsoon (December to March), the winds shift to the northeast and become drier, resulting in a cooler and drier climate. The transitional months of April to May and October to November experience variable wind patterns, with occasional dust storms or thunderstorms.

Environmental Impact:

The wind in Bhagalpur plays a significant role in shaping the local environment. The strong winds during the monsoon season can cause erosion and damage to vegetation. However, they also bring essential rainfall that supports agriculture and replenishes water resources. The drier winds during the winter monsoon help to disperse pollutants, improving air quality. Additionally, the wind in Bhagalpur can affect the spread of diseases, particularly respiratory infections, as it can carry airborne particles and allergens. Understanding these wind patterns is crucial for sustainable land management practices and disaster preparedness in the region.

Summer (March-June)

Summer in Bhagalpur is characterized by soaring temperatures, reaching highs of up to 45 degrees Celsius. The city experiences intense heat waves, and the humidity levels make it even more uncomfortable. Outdoor activities are not recommended during this time, as heatstroke and dehydration are common risks. However, it’s important to note that even though the temperatures are high, the city does not receive much rainfall during this season. Therefore, there are minimal chances of facing any inconvenience due to rain.

Winter (November-February)

Winter is arguably the best time to visit Bhagalpur. The weather during this time is pleasant and cool, with average temperatures ranging between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. The city enjoys bright sunshine and minimal humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The skies are mostly clear, showcasing the beautiful landscapes of Bhagalpur. However, it’s worth noting that temperatures can drop significantly at night, so it’s advisable to pack warm clothing if you plan to be out late.

Solar Potential in Bhagalpur

Bhagalpur, situated in the eastern state of Bihar, India, is blessed with abundant solar energy potential. The city receives an average of 5.5-6.5 peak sunlight hours per day, making it an ideal location for harnessing solar power. The region has a clear sky index of 6, indicating a low level of cloud cover and high solar irradiance throughout the year. This consistent sunshine makes Bhagalpur a prime candidate for large-scale solar installations and projects.

Solar Initiatives and Development

Recognizing the potential of solar energy, the government of Bhagalpur has initiated several programs to promote its adoption. The city has established solar parks and rooftops to capitalize on the abundant solar resources. In 2017, the Bhagalpur City Municipal Corporation launched the “Bhagalpur Solar City Project” to install solar panels on government buildings, schools, and other public facilities. Additionally, local industries and businesses have adopted solar energy as a sustainable and cost-effective solution, contributing to the city’s overall solar profile.

General Topography

Bhagalpur, India, lies within the northern part of the state of Bihar, in the eastern region of the country. It is situated on the banks of the Ganges River, with a vast alluvial plain surrounding it. The topography of Bhagalpur is characterized by flat, fertile land, ideal for agriculture and settlement. The region has a low elevation, with the majority of the land lying below 100 meters above sea level.

Eastern Highlands

The eastern part of Bhagalpur, known as the Eastern Highlands, features rolling hills and shallow valleys. This region is home to the Rajmahal Hills, an isolated range of mountains that rise to heights of over 300 meters. The hills are composed of sandstone and granite, and they create a picturesque backdrop to the surrounding landscape. The Eastern Highlands also contain several lakes and ponds, which provide habitat for diverse flora and fauna.

Birsa Munda Airport (IXR)

The nearest airport to Bhagalpur, India, is Birsa Munda Airport (IXR). It is located in Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand state, approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles) from Bhagalpur. The airport has domestic flights connecting to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Patna, among others. From Birsa Munda Airport, travelers can take a connecting flight or taxi to reach Bhagalpur. The drive typically takes about 4 hours.

Other Airports

There are other airports located within a longer distance from Bhagalpur. These include Patna Airport (PAT) in Patna (approximately 200 kilometers away) and Kolkata Airport (CCU) in Kolkata (approximately 400 kilometers away). However, these airports have limited connectivity to Bhagalpur, and the travel time by road is significantly longer.

Bhagalpur is also connected to other cities in India by rail and road. The railway station in Bhagalpur offers trains to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. The city is also accessible by road through National Highway 31 and other major highways connecting it to neighboring states.

Geography and Demographics:

Bhagalpur is a city located in the eastern state of Bihar, India. Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, it serves as the administrative headquarters of Bhagalpur district. With an area of approximately 250 square kilometers, Bhagalpur is known for its fertile soil and abundant rainfall. As of 2011, the city’s population was estimated at 405,644, making it the third-largest city in Bihar. The majority of the population speaks Hindi, and the predominant religion is Hinduism.

History and Culture:

Bhagalpur has a rich historical and cultural heritage. It is believed to have been founded by King Bhagadatta, a contemporary of Lord Krishna. Throughout history, the city has been influenced by various empires, including the Mauryan, Gupta, and Mughal dynasties. In the 18th century, Bhagalpur became a major trading center for silk and indigo. The city is also renowned for its traditional folk art and music, particularly the Bhagalpur Bhajan, a form of devotional singing.