A severe weather advisory has been issued for West Bengal as heavy monsoon rains trigger landslide warnings in the hilly terrains of Darjeeling and Kalimpong. Severe waterlogging and thunderstorms are expected across the state for the next week.
West Bengal is currently grappling with intense monsoon activity driven by an active Southwest Monsoon and a well-marked low-pressure system. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Kolkata has issued a critical seven-day advisory, warning of severe thunderstorms, lightning, and potential landslides in the sensitive hilly terrains of Darjeeling and Kalimpong.
Over the past 24 hours, South Bengal has experienced extreme precipitation. Birbhum district emerged as one of the hardest-hit areas, with Sriniketan recording a staggering 26 cm of rainfall. In the industrial belt of Paschim Bardhaman, Burnpur logged 21 cm, while the capital city, Kolkata, saw 13 cm of rain at the Alipore station. These downpours have led to widespread waterlogging in low-lying areas and disruptions in daily commutes.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the combination of high-intensity rainfall and the geological instability of the North Bengal hills creates a high-risk environment for both residents and tourists. The potential for structural damage to 'kutcha' houses and the destruction of standing crops poses a significant socio-economic threat to the region.
"The well-marked low-pressure area has shifted toward northeast Madhya Pradesh, but an associated cyclonic circulation continues to channel heavy moisture into the region via the monsoon trough through Digha." - Dr. H. R. Biswas, Scientist, RMC Kolkata.
The weather department has projected heavy to very heavy rainfall (7–20 cm) for Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong through Thursday. North Bengal districts, including Malda and Alipurduar, are also on high alert. Meanwhile, in South Bengal, while intensity may taper slightly between September 4 and 7, a fresh spell of heavy rain is expected to return by September 8, affecting Murshidabad and Birbhum.
Historical Background
The Himalayan foothills in West Bengal have a long history of monsoon-induced disasters. The geological composition of the Darjeeling and Kalimpong hills makes them highly susceptible to soil erosion and landslides during periods of sustained heavy rainfall. Climate patterns have shown an increasing frequency of such extreme weather events in recent decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Which areas are most at risk of landslides?
Answer: The hilly regions of Darjeeling and Kalimpong are currently at the highest risk of landslides due to heavy precipitation.
Question 2: What precautions should residents take?
Answer: Residents should avoid standing near trees or electric poles during lightning and seek shelter in sturdy buildings during heavy storms.
