Kolkata, May 19: The Alipore Meteorological Department has sounded the alarm over persistent rain and thunderstorms across West Bengal due to an active east-west trough stretching from Punjab to North Bangladesh. Aided by substantial moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal, this weather pattern is expected to continue for the next few days, affecting both North and South Bengal.
According to the IMD bulletin, the trough is extending through Haryana, southern Uttar Pradesh, southern Bihar, and the northern part of Gangetic West Bengal. With favorable wind conditions and high humidity levels, ideal conditions have formed for rainfall across the state from north to south.
Active Trough and Moisture Inflow from Bay Triggers Widespread Rain in Bengal – IMD Issues Weather Alert
Rainfall Forecast and Weather Alert:
The IMD’s special bulletin on Monday forecast thunderstorms with lightning and wind speeds of 50–60 km/h in Purulia, West Burdwan, Birbhum, and Murshidabad. Other districts may experience winds at 40–50 km/h. Kolkata is also likely to witness intermittent rainfall.
The stormy conditions are expected to persist across South Bengal till Thursday. On Tuesday, a weather alert has been issued for West Midnapore, Jhargram, Purulia, Bankura, Murshidabad, Nadia, and Burdwan. Wind gusts up to 50 km/h are forecast for Purulia, Bankura, West Midnapore, West Burdwan, Birbhum, and Murshidabad on Wednesday.
Heavy Rain Likely in North Bengal:
North Bengal is expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall, with rainfall ranging from 7 to 11 cm across all districts on Monday. On Tuesday, Malda, North Dinajpur, and South Dinajpur may face thunderstorms with wind speeds of 50–60 km/h. Very heavy rainfall is likely in Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri. On Wednesday, heavy showers are expected in North Dinajpur and Cooch Behar. Thursday carries a blanket alert for all districts of North Bengal.
Temperature Dip Brings Relief to Kolkata:
The maximum temperature in Kolkata has dropped significantly—from 36.2°C on Saturday to 31.9°C on Sunday. The minimum temperature on Monday was recorded at 26.4°C, close to normal. After recently touching 39°C, with areas like Dum Dum and Salt Lake crossing 40°C, the city has seen a welcome cool-off thanks to the rain.
The IMD urges residents to stay alert, particularly in districts under high wind warnings and likely to witness lightning activity. Emergency services are on standby.