A low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal has triggered widespread rainfall across West Bengal. From Kolkata to the Himalayan foothills, heavy downpours and gusty winds are expected.

  • Heavy rainfall and lightning expected in Kolkata and South 24 Parganas.
  • Purulia, Bankura, Paschim Bardhaman, and Birbhum on alert for 7-11 cm rain.
  • Severe weather warning for North Bengal districts including Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri.
  • Wind speeds could reach 30-40 km/h across the state.

The monsoon has intensified across West Bengal, with Kolkata and its surrounding areas witnessing continuous rainfall since Tuesday morning. A low-pressure area situated over the Bay of Bengal, extending across Gangetic West Bengal, the Odisha coast, and the North-West Bay of Bengal, is the primary driver behind this widespread inclement weather.

Meteorologists have predicted significant rainfall for South 24 Parganas and parts of Kolkata, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Residents should prepare for gusty winds traveling at speeds of 30-40 km/h. Furthermore, the western belt, including Purulia, Bankura, Paschim Bardhaman, and Birbhum, is bracing for heavy showers, with rainfall levels potentially reaching 7-11 cm in certain pockets.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that while the rain provides relief from the heat, the sudden intensification of low-pressure systems poses a significant risk of urban flooding in Kolkata and agricultural disruption in the western districts. The spatial extent of this system suggests a prolonged period of unsettled weather for the region.

The current positioning of the low-pressure zone necessitates extreme caution in low-lying areas due to the combined threat of heavy rain and gusty winds.

The situation in North Bengal remains particularly critical. A weather warning has been issued for all northern districts. Specifically, the five northernmost districts—Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar—are expected to experience heavy rainfall on Tuesday, with the intensity expected to persist through Wednesday and Thursday. Forecasts also indicate continued heavy showers in Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar through Friday.

Historical Background

Historically, the Bay of Bengal has been a breeding ground for low-pressure systems and cyclonic disturbances. These systems play a crucial role in the Indian Monsoon, often determining the intensity of the rainy season in West Bengal and neighboring states like Odisha and Bangladesh.

Did You Know?: The Bay of Bengal is one of the warmest parts of the Indian Ocean, which fuels the formation of frequent low-pressure systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Will there be wind alerts for Kolkata?
Answer: Yes, gusts of 30-40 km/h are expected during the thunderstorms.

Question 2: When will the weather improve in South Bengal?
Answer: While the intensity may decrease from Wednesday, scattered thunderstorms will continue throughout the week.