Kolkata, 14 May (H.S.): In a much-needed respite for residents battling sweltering heat and high humidity, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted Kalbaisakhi storms accompanied by heavy rain in several districts of South Bengal on Friday. The stormy weather is expected to bring down temperatures significantly, offering temporary relief from the intense summer conditions.
For the past several days, South Bengal has been experiencing brief spells of untimely evening showers, but daytime heatwaves and harsh sunlight have continued to disrupt daily life. With rising temperatures, people have been eagerly awaiting relief.
According to the IMD, strong gusty winds ranging from 60 to 70 km/h are likely to sweep through districts including West Midnapore, Jhargram, Purulia, Bankura, Bardhaman, Birbhum, and Murshidabad. A storm and rain alert has been issued for these regions. On Saturday, Kolkata and several adjoining districts may also witness thunderstorms and rainfall.
A heatwave warning has been issued for Wednesday and Thursday in West Midnapore, West Bardhaman, and Birbhum. Meanwhile, intense heat and humidity will persist in Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, North and South 24 Parganas, Bankura, East and West Bardhaman, Birbhum, Murshidabad, and Nadia. While scattered showers are possible on Wednesday and Thursday, they are unlikely to bring any significant drop in temperature.
In North Bengal, rainfall accompanied by strong winds is also expected across all districts. From Darjeeling to Malda, light to moderate rain is likely with wind speeds of 30 to 50 km/h. Heavy rainfall has been forecast for Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, Cooch Behar, and Jalpaiguri.
The IMD further reported that the southwest monsoon has arrived in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands five days ahead of schedule, on May 13. This early onset has raised the possibility of an early monsoon in South Bengal as well.
Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh
