As Kolkata and the rest of Bengal gear up for Durga Puja festivities, the weather forecast brings a mix of good and bad news. A depression over the Bay of Bengal is set to cause continued rainfall across the state. However, there is a silver lining—despite intermittent rain over the next seven days, there is little risk of a major weather disruption during the Puja days.
Rainfall Expected Due to Bay of Bengal Depression
A low-pressure system that has formed over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression, bringing widespread rainfall across various districts of West Bengal. According to the weather department, Kolkata and the southern parts of Bengal, including the coastal areas, will experience light to moderate rainfall today, accompanied by thunderstorms.
Saturday’s weather in Kolkata will be mild, with light to moderate rain expected throughout the day. The city’s minimum temperature today was recorded at 25°C, slightly below the normal by 0.8°C. Humidity levels are currently ranging between 87% and 95%, keeping the weather cooler and reducing the typical October heat.
Intermittent Showers to Continue Over the Weekend
Although Saturday will see continued rainfall, the intensity is expected to decrease from Sunday. The weather office forecasts a partly cloudy sky for most parts of Bengal with scattered showers in some areas. There is a likelihood of heavy rain in districts such as South 24 Parganas and Murshidabad tomorrow, but overall, the weather will begin to improve as the Puja week progresses.
Sunday’s temperatures will range between 26°C and 31°C, and while humidity may increase slightly due to moisture in the air, severe heat will be avoided. The possibility of thunderstorms will also reduce significantly from Sunday onwards.
No Major Disruptions to Durga Puja Celebrations
For those concerned about heavy rains during the Puja, the forecast brings a sigh of relief. Though some scattered rainfall may occur, heavy downpours are unlikely during the key Puja days. The depression is gradually moving towards Bangladesh, and its impact on southern Bengal will ease.
While north Bengal districts such as Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong may still see occasional showers, the overall weather during Durga Puja is expected to remain largely manageable, allowing for uninterrupted pandal hopping and celebrations without the need for umbrellas.
Weather Forecast Highlights for Kolkata:
- Light to moderate rain with thunderstorms expected today
- Minimum temperature: 25°C (0.8°C below normal)
- Humidity: 87% to 95%
- Maximum temperature for the next 24 hours: 26°C to 31°C
- Rain to decrease from Sunday, with clear skies on Puja days
In summary, while rain may continue for a few more days in various parts of Bengal, especially in north Bengal, Kolkata can expect relatively mild weather. Despite the depression, there is minimal risk of a major weather disturbance during the Puja celebrations, ensuring the festivities can proceed without significant disruption.