The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns that a depression moving towards Jharkhand will trigger torrential rains across Western West Bengal and sub-Himalayan districts until August 21.
- A depression over Gangetic West Bengal has shifted towards Jharkhand.
- Heavy rainfall predicted for Purulia, Bankura, and Birbhum until Wednesday.
- Sub-Himalayan districts like Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri are on high alert until August 21.
A significant meteorological shift occurred on Tuesday as a depression over Gangetic West Bengal moved towards Jharkhand. This movement brings a glimmer of hope for residents of Kolkata and its surrounding areas, who suffered through incessant rainfall that paralyzed city life just 24 hours prior.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this shifting low-pressure system is expected to lash the western districts of West Bengal, including Purulia, Bankura, Paschim Bardhaman, Birbhum, Jhargram, and Paschim Medinipur, with heavy rainfall through Wednesday morning. Furthermore, thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds are likely across south Bengal.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the synchronization of an active monsoon trough with massive moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal creates a 'perfect storm' for urban flooding. The recent chaos in Kolkata and Salt Lake, where major thoroughfares became rivers, highlights the critical vulnerability of urban infrastructure to extreme weather events.
"The movement of the depression towards the interior landmass often leads to concentrated bursts of rainfall, increasing the risk of flash floods in low-lying districts."
The rainfall data paints a vivid picture of the intensity. Asansol in Paschim Bardhaman recorded a staggering 157 mm of rain within 24 hours, the highest in the state. Other significant recordings include Suri at 114 mm and Medinipur at 109.6 mm, while the capital, Kolkata, saw 59.8 mm.
The threat extends to the north as well. The IMD has issued a warning for the sub-Himalayan belt, specifically Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, and Jalpaiguri. These regions are expected to receive heavy rainfall until the morning of August 21, raising concerns over potential landslides in the hilly terrains.
| Location | Rainfall (mm) | Impact Level |
|---|---|---|
| Asansol | 157 | Extreme |
| Suri | 114 | High |
| Kolkata | 59.8 | Moderate/Urban Flood |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which districts in West Bengal are most affected by the current system?
The western districts like Purulia and Bankura, and northern districts like Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri are under heavy rain alerts.
2. How did the rain affect Kolkata's infrastructure?
Torrential rains caused severe waterlogging in Kolkata and Salt Lake, leading to massive traffic snarls and disrupting daily commutes.
