The weather in Kolkata and several districts of South Bengal is set to take a dramatic turn this week, with the Alipore Meteorological Department predicting widespread rainfall starting Wednesday. The unseasonal rains are expected to continue until Sunday, disrupting daily life and wedding plans across the region. Here’s a detailed look at the weather forecast and its potential impact.
Rainfall to Begin from Wednesday
According to the Alipore Meteorological Department, light to moderate rainfall is expected in Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, North and South 24 Parganas, and Bankura from Wednesday. The intensity of the rain is likely to increase on Thursday, with thunderstorms and heavy showers predicted for several districts, including East Midnapore, North and South 24 Parganas.
Extended Rainfall Forecast
The wet spell is expected to persist throughout the week, with rainfall predicted in all districts of South Bengal from Thursday to Sunday. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are likely on Friday, particularly in East Midnapore and the 24 Parganas districts. The weather office has indicated that the adverse conditions may continue until Sunday, with a possible improvement starting Monday.
Impact on Wedding Season
The unseasonal rains have caused concern among families planning weddings this week. With multiple wedding dates scheduled, the unexpected downpour could disrupt ceremonies and outdoor events. The meteorological department has advised residents to stay updated on weather conditions and plan accordingly.
Temperature Trends in Kolkata
Despite the onset of winter, Kolkata has experienced a rise in temperatures. On Tuesday, the minimum temperature recorded was 23.6°C, which is 4.9°C above normal. The weather office has stated that there is no immediate forecast for a drop in temperature, and the city is unlikely to experience the usual winter chill in the coming days.
Darjeeling and North Bengal Weather
In contrast to South Bengal, Darjeeling and other high-altitude areas in North Bengal may witness light snowfall from Wednesday to Saturday. The temperature in North Bengal is expected to rise gradually, with light to moderate fog predicted in the mornings across all districts. Visibility is likely to improve as the day progresses.
Key Precautions and Advisories
- Residents are advised to avoid venturing out during thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.
- Wedding planners and families should prepare for indoor arrangements to avoid disruptions.
- Motorists should exercise caution due to reduced visibility caused by fog and rain.
- Stay updated with the latest weather forecasts from the Alipore Meteorological Department.
While the unseasonal rains may bring relief from the rising temperatures, they are likely to cause inconvenience, especially during the wedding season. Residents of Kolkata and South Bengal should remain prepared for wet conditions until Sunday, with a potential improvement in weather expected by Monday. Meanwhile, Darjeeling’s light snowfall offers a contrasting weather experience for North Bengal.