As winter bids farewell to West Bengal in mid-February, the state is set to experience a spell of heavy rain. The Alipore Meteorological Department has issued a forecast predicting thunderstorms and rainfall across various districts of South Bengal. Northern districts, including Darjeeling, may also experience light showers, with a possibility of snowfall in higher altitudes.
Heatwave in Kolkata, Rain Brings Temporary Relief
On Tuesday, Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 23.6°C, while the maximum temperature reached 30.8°C. Similar temperatures are expected on Wednesday. However, rain showers are anticipated from mid-week, bringing some relief from the rising temperatures.
Which Districts Will Receive Rain?
South Bengal:
🔹 Wednesday: Thunderstorms and rain are likely in Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, and Bankura. A yellow alert has been issued for these districts.
🔹 Thursday: Rainfall is expected in North 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Jhargram, Purulia, East Bardhaman, West Bardhaman, Birbhum, and Nadia.
🔹 Friday: Thunderstorms may occur in East Midnapore, South 24 Parganas, West Bardhaman, Birbhum, and Murshidabad.
🔹 Saturday & Sunday: Light to moderate rain with thunderstorms is likely in almost all districts of South Bengal, including Kolkata.
North Bengal:
🔹 Wednesday: Darjeeling and Kalimpong may experience rain, with light snowfall possible in higher elevations.
🔹 Thursday: Rain will spread to Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, and other districts of North Bengal.
🔹 Saturday & Sunday: Thunderstorms and rain are likely across North Bengal.
Why Is It Raining?
The weather department attributes the rainfall to the following meteorological factors:
1️⃣ A twin cyclonic circulation over Rajasthan and Assam
2️⃣ A reverse cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal
3️⃣ A fresh western disturbance moving from Northwest India to East India
These weather patterns have created favorable conditions for rainfall across West Bengal.
Possible Impact on Agriculture
While the rain may bring relief from rising temperatures, farmers fear potential damage to crops. Agricultural experts warn that continuous rainfall during this period could harm Rabi crops, especially potato cultivation.
Conclusion
With thunderstorms and rain expected to continue for several days, Bengal will experience changing weather patterns. However, temperatures are not expected to drop significantly, meaning the heat will persist. The bigger concern now is how the rain will impact farmers and agricultural production across the state.