Bihar Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Bihar, India, exhibits a Cwa climate, characterized by distinct seasonal variations and a temperate climate overall. The winter months, particularly January, experience the coldest temperatures dropping to a minimum of 4°C (40°F). As the year progresses, Bihar basks in warmer temperatures, with an average of 26°C (78°F), peaking in June at a sweltering maximum of 45°C (114°F). With this dynamic temperature range, the climate significantly influences agricultural practices and daily life in the region.

Bihar temperature by month

Bihar experiences pronounced seasonal temperature variations throughout the year, characterized by a cold winter that sees January temperatures starting as low as 4°C (40°F), gradually warming by February. As spring approaches in March, temperatures rise significantly, with daily maximums reaching 41°C (106°F). The summer months of April and May witness peak heat, with maximum temperatures soaring to 44°C (111°F) and 45°C (113°F), respectively. Following this, the onset of the monsoon season in June brings a slight respite from the heat, but temperatures remain high, averaging 31°C (88°F). The subsequent months of July and August maintain warm conditions, although they gradually decrease. By fall, temperatures begin to drop, with averages of 27°C (81°F) in October and 22°C (72°F) in November, signaling the transition into a cooler winter that ends the cycle.

Monthly Temperatures in Bihar, India

The chart illustrates Bihar's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec606677858788868685817263
Data source: Bihar temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Buddh Gaya and Gaya, both located in Bihar, experience similar temperature ranges, with minimums dipping to 5°C (42°F) in December and maximums soaring to 45°C (113°F) in June, as detailed in their respective climate links: monthly temperatures in Buddh Gaya and monthly temperatures in Gaya. Patna follows a comparable pattern, registering a minimum temperature of 5°C (42°F) in January, while also reaching a maximum of 45°C (113°F) in June, as outlined in monthly temperatures in Patna.

Precipitation Patterns in Bihar

Bihar's precipitation patterns reflect a marked seasonal shift, with the dry winter months of January through March receiving minimal rainfall, ranging from only 9 mm (0.3 in) in January to 18 mm (0.7 in) in March. As spring transitions into summer, rainfall begins to increase, peaking in May with 95 mm (3.7 in). However, the onset of the monsoon season in June brings a dramatic rise in precipitation, with 221 mm (8.7 in) recorded, and this trend continues into the monsoon months of July and August, where rainfall reaches impressive levels of 382 mm (15.1 in) and 316 mm (12.5 in), respectively.

The monsoon period is not only characterized by high precipitation but also by increased rainy days, peaking with 27 days of rain in both July and August. As September arrives, rainfall starts to decline but remains substantial at 260 mm (10.2 in), while October sees a further reduction to 87 mm (3.4 in) over 8 rainy days. By late autumn and winter, precipitation drops significantly, with November experiencing virtually no rainfall and December receiving just 14 mm (0.6 in), marking the return to a predominantly dry climate until the cycle repeats.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Bihar, India

The average monthly precipitation in Bihar, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91918319522138231626087114
Data source: Bihar precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

Sunshine Duration in Bihar

In Bihar, India, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with winter months receiving the least sunlight. January starts the year with 235 hours of bright sunshine, but daylight hours steadily increase through February, reaching 281 hours in the early spring months. This upward trajectory culminates in May, when the region basks in 347 hours of sunlight, reflecting the peak brightness of the year. April and May represent a shift into the hotter seasons, characterized by longer daylight hours, which are vital for agriculture as crops thrive on the abundant sunshine.

As the monsoon season approaches in June, the sunshine hours begin to decline, resulting in 319 hours amid increased cloud cover. This downward trend continues through July, where only 261 hours of sunshine are recorded, representing the least sunny month of the year. However, as the monsoon recedes, August and September see a recovery in sunshine hours, maintaining around 282 hours and 281 hours, respectively. By October, conditions improve further, with 299 hours of sunshine providing a warm transition into autumn. Throughout November and December, sunshine remains relatively stable, with 284 and 278 hours, ensuring Bihar's winter is still marked by some bright, sunny days despite the cold.

Monthly Sunshine in Bihar, India

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Bihar receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235h281h334h339h347h319h261h282h281h299h284h278h
Data source: Bihar sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Bihar UV Index Trends

In Bihar, India, the UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, presenting critical information on potential sun exposure and skin safety. During the winter months, January and February show a moderate UV Index of 6 and 7, respectively, categorized as high, with a burn time of 25 minutes for unprotected skin. As spring arrives in March, the UV Index escalates to 9, entering the very high exposure category and necessitating more careful sun protection due to a reduced burn time of only 15 minutes. This trend continues into April, where it peaks at 10, underscoring an urgent need for protective measures as the days grow longer and sunnier.

The summer months witness an alarming rise as the UV Index reaches extreme levels, with May recording an Index of 11, followed by 12 in June. July and August maintain this extreme status with an Index of 13, indicating severe sun exposure, and necessitating protection within just 10 minutes to avoid skin damage. As the year progresses into the fall months, the UV Index dips slightly but remains impactful; for example, October has a UV Index of 10, classified as very high. By November and December, the UV Index returns to 7 and 6, respectively, allowing for a more comfortable sun exposure level, yet individuals should still remain cautious in the high exposure category during these months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Bihar, India

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Bihar. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6791011121313121076
Data source: Bihar UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Bihar

In Bihar, India, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, beginning with shorter days in the winter months. January sees approximately 10 hours of daylight, which gradually extends to 11 hours in February as the region transitions toward spring. By March, daylight reaches 12 hours, sustaining this duration in April and marking the onset of longer days as temperatures begin to warm. The sunlight peaks in May and June, each providing 13 hours of daylight, which not only enhances the warmth but also benefits agricultural activities reliant on ample sunlight.

As the monsoon season progresses into July and August, daylight duration remains constant at 13 hours, fostering a productive environment despite increased cloud cover. However, with the arrival of autumn in September, the daylight starts to taper off again, settling back to 12 hours. October brings a further reduction to 11 hours, while November and December return to the shorter daylight of 10 hours experienced in January. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration plays a crucial role in influencing both daily life and seasonal agricultural practices in Bihar, reflecting the natural rhythms of the region.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Bihar, India

This chart shows the total daylight hours Bihar receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec642h676h720h765h803h821h812h779h735h691h652h632h
Data source: Bihar daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Bihar's Popular Destinations

Aurangabad, India experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by extreme temperatures and a distinct monsoon season. January sees cooler temperatures ranging from 6°C to 29°C, while May and June peak at around 44°C and 45°C respectively. The region receives the majority of its annual rainfall during the monsoon months, particularly in July, which averages 324 mm. Despite high precipitation during these months, Aurangabad enjoys substantial sunshine throughout the year, with May boasting the highest at 359 hours. For more detailed information, visit Aurangabad climate.

Bhagalpur, India experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and a significant monsoon season. Temperatures range from a chilly 7°C (45°F) in January to a sweltering 43°C (110°F) in June, with the highest rainfall occurring in the monsoon months of July and August, receiving over 300 mm (11.9 in) of precipitation each. Sunshine hours are plentiful, with March, April, and May boasting over 330 hours of sun. As the year progresses, rainfall decreases markedly towards the end of the year, offering a drier climate in November and December. For more details, visit Bhagalpur climate.

Bhawanipur, India experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot summers and a significant monsoon season. Temperatures range from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) in January to a maximum of 41°C (106°F) in April and May. The monsoon months of June to September bring the highest precipitation, peaking at 435 mm (17.1 in) in July. Despite heavy rains during this period, sunlit days are prevalent, particularly in May with 341 sunshine hours. For more detailed information, visit Bhawanipur climate.

Bihar Sharif, India experiences a climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January temperatures range from a chilly 6°C (43°F) to a warm 28°C (83°F), while summer months, especially May and June, peak at around 44°C (111°F) and 45°C (114°F), respectively. The region witnesses significant rainfall, particularly during the monsoon in July, which receives approximately 365 mm (14.4 in) of precipitation. With abundant sunshine, peaking at 352 hours in May, the weather is typically sunny and humid. For more detailed information, visit Bihar Sharif climate.

Buddh Gaya, India experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot summers and a monsoon season. From January to March, temperatures gradually rise from a minimum of 5°C to a maximum of 41°C, with ample sunshine. The monsoon, peaking in July and August, brings significant rainfall, with July averaging 316 mm. Temperatures remain high during summer months, with May and June recording max temperatures of 45°C. For more detailed insights, visit Buddh Gaya climate.

Darbhanga, India experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal changes. The temperature ranges from a chilly 5°C (42°F) in January to a scorching 44°C (112°F) in June, with the summer months (April to June) being particularly hot and humid. Rainfall peaks in July with 365 mm (14.4 in), making it the wettest month, while November sees minimal precipitation. The area enjoys substantial sunshine throughout the year, reaching up to 349 hours in May. For more detailed information, visit Darbhanga climate.

Gaya, India experiences a hot and humid climate, with summer months from April to June seeing temperatures soar above 40°C (104°F). The monsoon season brings significant rainfall, particularly in July, when the area receives approximately 316 mm (12.4 in). Despite the summer heat, Gaya enjoys ample sunlight, peaking in May with 358 hours. Cooler winter months from December to February have milder temperatures, averaging around 16°C (60°F) to 19°C (67°F). For more detailed climate information, visit Gaya climate.

The climate in Hilsa, India is characterized by a significant temperature range throughout the year, with January temperatures averaging 15°C (60°F) and peaking at 32°C (90°F) in May. The hottest months are April and May, where maximum temperatures can reach up to 43°C (110°F) and 44°C (112°F), respectively. Rainfall is concentrated during the monsoon months of July and August, receiving 364 mm (14.3 in) and 284 mm (11.2 in) of precipitation. Despite the heavy rains, the region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in late spring, with May recording the highest at 356 hours. For more detailed information, visit Hilsa climate.

Kharagpur, India experiences a predominantly tropical climate characterized by hot summers and a distinct monsoon season. Temperatures range from a mild 6°C (43°F) in January to a scorching 44°C (112°F) in June. Rainfall peaks during the monsoon months of July and August, receiving 335 mm (13.2 in) and 274 mm (10.8 in) respectively, while November sees minimal precipitation at just 1 mm (0.0 in). Sunshine is abundant, with March and April providing the most, each boasting 338 hours. For more detailed information, visit Kharagpur climate.

Madhubani, India experiences a varied climate throughout the year, characterized by hot summers and a significant monsoon season. Temperatures range from a chilly 5°C (42°F) in January to a scorching 44°C (112°F) in June, with monthly averages peaking at 31°C (88°F) during the summer months. Precipitation is highest from June to September, with July seeing up to 365 mm (14.4 in) of rainfall, indicating the intensity of the monsoon. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in April and May, averaging around 339 to 349 hours, making it a vibrant place despite the heat. For more detailed information, visit Madhubani climate.

Patna, India experiences a tropical climate characterized by a hot and humid summer, with temperatures peaking in May and June, often reaching up to 45°C (113°F). The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall, particularly in July, which sees an average of 364 mm (14.3 in). The winter months of December and January are cooler, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of around 5°C (42°F). Sunshine is abundant, with the sunniest months being May and April, where monthly sunshine exceeds 350 hours. For more detailed information, visit Patna climate.

Rajgir, India experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January temperatures range from a chilly 5°C (42°F) to a warm 29°C (85°F), while May and June soar to maximums around 44°C (112°F) and 45°C (114°F), respectively. The monsoon season from June to September brings significant rainfall, peaking in July with 377 mm (14.8 in). Despite the variable precipitation, sunshine is abundant, reaching up to 352 hours in May. For more detailed information, visit Rajgir climate.

The climate in Ramnagar, India, features a typical range of temperatures throughout the year, with January's lows at 4°C (40°F) and July's highs reaching up to 43°C (109°F). The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly during the monsoon months of June and July, with precipitation peaking at 493 mm (19.4 in) in July. Sunshine is abundant, with the highest hours recorded in May at 351 hours. Overall, Ramnagar has a warm climate with distinctive wet and dry seasons, making it an area of notable meteorological contrasts. For more details, visit Ramnagar climate.

Sitamarhi, India, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 5°C (42°F) in December to scorching highs of 43°C (110°F) in June. The region sees the most rainfall from June to August, with July recording a significant 458 mm (18.0 in), while November is notably dry. Sunshine hours peak in May at 350 hours, contributing to the warm and humid summer conditions. For more detailed climate information, visit Sitamarhi climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bihar, India, showcases a distinctive climate characterized by significant variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight throughout the year. The transition from cooler winter months to the sweltering heat of summer, followed by the relieve of the monsoon, plays a critical role in shaping the agricultural calendar and the daily lives of its residents. As sunlight and UV exposure fluctuate remarkably, understanding these climatic trends is essential for promoting effective health measures and optimizing agricultural productivity. Ultimately, the interplay of these climatic elements highlights Bihar's unique environmental landscape, underscoring the importance of seasonal awareness for both inhabitants and policymakers alike.

Discover the Climate of Bihar's Places

A B C D F G H I J K L M N P R S T W

A

B

C

D

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

P

R

S

T

W