A strengthening low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal has triggered Red Alerts for parts of South Bengal and Orange Alerts for Kolkata, warning of extreme rainfall and waterlogging.
Key Takeaways
- A low-pressure system in the North Bay of Bengal is intensifying.
- Red Alerts issued for South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, and West Midnapore.
- Kolkata is under an Orange Alert with potential thundershowers.
- Fishermen have been advised to stay away from the sea until August 15.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a Red Alert for several districts in South Bengal as a low-pressure area over the North Bay of Bengal continues to strengthen. The system, which developed early Wednesday, is expected to move northwestwards, triggering intense rainfall spells across the coastal and neighboring districts.
According to the latest weather reports, South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore are facing the highest risk of extremely heavy rainfall, exceeding 20 cm in some isolated areas. As the system progresses, the threat is expected to shift towards West Midnapore and Bankura, where Red Alerts are also in effect.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that such rapid intensification of low-pressure systems poses a significant threat to both rural agriculture and urban infrastructure. In South Bengal, the risk of inundation in low-lying areas and damage to standing crops is extremely high, while urban centers like Kolkata must prepare for sudden waterlogging and transport disruptions.
The combination of high humidity and intense rainfall spells could lead to localized flooding and structural damage in vulnerable areas.
In Kolkata, the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy with episodes of light to moderate rain. While the intensity is lower than in the southern districts, the city remains under an Orange Alert due to the possibility of intense thundershowers and gusty winds reaching 30-40 kmph.
Regional Weather Comparison
| Region | Alert Level | Rainfall Intensity |
|---|---|---|
| South 24 Parganas | Red Alert | Extremely Heavy (>20cm) |
| Kolkata | Orange Alert | Moderate to Heavy |
| North Bengal | Yellow/Orange | Heavy (7-20cm) |
| Midnapore/Bankura | Red Alert | Very Heavy to Extreme |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which districts are under the highest rainfall warning?
South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, and Bankura are under Red Alert.
2. Is it safe for fishermen to go out to sea?
No, the IMD has advised fishermen against venturing into the sea from August 12 to 15 due to high swells and strong winds.
