From cold to heat: why this transition is risky
In Bihar, the weather changes quickly from a cold winter to a very hot summer, usually between February and April.
Temperatures that were around 10 °C in January can rise to above 35–40 °C by March and even 44–45 °C in May in some districts.

This sudden change puts stress on the body, especially for children, elderly people and those with heart disease, blood pressure, diabetes or chronic lung problems. Heat waves in Bihar have previously caused many cases of dehydration, heat exhaustion and even heat stroke, particularly among people who work outdoors.

Step 1: Adjust your routine gradually
As winter ends, many people suddenly switch from heavy woollens to very light clothes and start staying out in the sun for long periods. This sudden change can lead to fatigue, headaches, sunburn and increased risk of heat‑related illness.
– For 2–3 weeks, change layers slowly: move from heavy sweaters to lighter cotton or mixed fabrics instead of going straight to sleeveless or very thin clothes.
– Shift outdoor work and exercise to early morning or late evening as days start getting hotter, avoiding peak sun from 12 noon to 3–4 pm. [imdnagpur.gov](https://imdnagpur.gov.in/docs_general/Heat_wave_Dos_and_Donts.pdf)
– If you were used to staying mostly indoors in winter, increase your time outside gradually so your body can adapt to rising temperatures. [imdnagpur.gov](https://imdnagpur.gov.in/docs_general/Heat_wave_Dos_and_Donts.pdf)

Step 2: Focus on hydration early, not only in peak summer
Dehydration starts much before peak May–June heat; even March and April can be very hot and dry in Bihar. Sweating increases as the temperature rises, and you may lose body fluids before you even feel very thirsty.
– Start increasing your daily fluid intake as soon as days feel warmer – plain water, ORS, lemon water, chaas (buttermilk), lassi, homemade sharbat, coconut water and rice water (torani) are good options.
– Avoid or limit too many sugary soft drinks, strong tea, coffee and alcohol, as they can worsen dehydration.
– Encourage children and elderly to sip water regularly even if they say they are not very thirsty.

Step 3: Choose weather‑appropriate clothing and sun protection
As Bihar moves into summer, daytime sun becomes intense and UV exposure increases. Overdressing like winter can cause overheating, but dressing too lightly without protection can cause sunburn, heat exhaustion and dizziness.
– Prefer loose, light‑coloured cotton or linen clothes that allow air circulation and reflect sunlight.
– When going out, use a cap, scarf or umbrella and, if possible, sunglasses to protect your head, eyes and face from direct sun.
– Avoid going barefoot on hot roads or open grounds, as this can lead to burns and overheating; always wear slippers or shoes.

Step 4: Eat light, fresh and safe food
With rising heat, heavy, oily and stale food is more likely to cause indigestion and foodborne infections.
– Shift gradually from very heavy winter diets to lighter meals: more fruits, salads, curd, chaas, sprouts and seasonal vegetables.
– Avoid stale, reheated food kept outside for long, especially rice and meat dishes, as they spoil faster in warm weather.
– Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and ensure clean drinking water to reduce the risk of diarrhoea and infections in summer.

Step 5: Protect heart, BP and chronic patients during rising heat
High temperatures and heat waves can cause dehydration, low blood pressure in some, raised heart rate and extra strain on the heart. People with heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease or chronic lung problems are particularly vulnerable.
– Avoid heavy physical work, long walks or intense outdoor exercise during hot hours; prefer indoor activity or cooler times of the day.
– Continue prescribed medicines regularly and check BP and blood sugar as advised, especially when the weather is changing.
– Do not ignore warning signs such as chest pain, breathlessness, palpitations, dizziness, severe fatigue, confusion, very dry mouth or reduced urine; seek medical help immediately.

Step 6: Recognise early signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
With every summer, Bihar reports cases of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially among outdoor workers, farmers, labourers, traffic police and the elderly. Early signs of heat‑related illness include:
– Intense thirst, dry mouth, dark yellow urine
– Headache, giddiness, weakness, muscle cramps
– Nausea, vomiting, fast heartbeat
Danger signs of heat stroke include:
– Very high body temperature, hot and dry skin
– Confusion, irritability, fainting or seizures
– No sweating despite extreme heat

If you see these danger signs, immediately shift the person to a cool, shaded place, wet the body with normal temperature water, fan them and give sips of ORS or lemon water if conscious – then take them urgently to the nearest health facility.

Step 7: Take extra care of children and elderly
Children often play outdoors for long and may forget to drink water, while elderly people may not feel thirst strongly even when dehydrated.
Ensure they wear light, breathable clothes and avoid direct sun during peak hours.
– Give them frequent small amounts of water, ORS, lemon water or buttermilk through the day.
– Never leave children or older adults alone in parked vehicles, even for a few minutes, as the inside temperature can rise very quickly.

Step 8: Plan your day with the weather in mind
In Bihar, summer days can reach 40–45 °C, especially in May and June, and hot winds (loo) increase the risk of heat stroke.
– Try to complete most outdoor tasks in the early morning or late evening.
– Stay updated with local weather forecasts and heat wave warnings through news or official advisories.
– During severe heat wave alerts, reschedule travel, outdoor functions and heavy labour work as far as possible.

Key message
The change from winter to summer in Bihar may look simple, but for your body it is a big adjustment. By slowly changing your routine, staying well‑hydrated, choosing the right clothing, eating light, and protecting vulnerable family members, you can face the upcoming summer more safely and comfortably.