Kolkata and South Bengal Brace for More Thunderstorms and Rain
Synopsis
Kolkata faces continued rainfall and thunderstorms as the Meteorological Department issues warnings. Conditions are expected to worsen with gusty winds and significant temperature drops. Residents should prepare for a turbulent weather weekend.
Key Takeaways
Severe weather warning: Thunderstorms and rain expected.
Orange Alert: Issued for six districts including Kolkata.
Significant temperature drop: Minimums below average.
Gusty winds: Speeds of 50-60 km/h likely.
Rain forecast: Continuation through the weekend.
Kolkata, March 28 (NationPress) Following a strong squall that hit Kolkata and surrounding districts overnight, the Meteorological Department has predicted a surge in rainfall along with thunderstorms later today, especially in south Bengal.
The Regional Meteorological Centre located in Alipore, Kolkata, indicated that the ongoing rainfall is a result of a western disturbance. Last night, the bad weather caused Union Home Minister Amit Shah's aircraft to circle for 45 minutes before it could land at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.
No relief from this adverse weather is anticipated today. Additional rainfall is expected throughout Saturday and Sunday, with an 'Orange Alert' issued for six districts in south Bengal, including Kolkata. Winds may gust between 50 to 60 km per hour, and heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is likely.
This sudden spell of rain and storms has provided a break from the intense heat, resulting in a significant drop in temperatures. On Saturday morning, Kolkata's minimum temperature fell to 20.2 degrees Celsius, which is 4.4 degrees below the normal.
Forecasts suggest that temperatures will continue to remain relatively low in the coming days. The Meteorological Office reported that a cyclonic circulation over southern Gangetic Bengal could lead to storms and rain in the south Bengal districts in the upcoming days.
The likelihood of such weather is particularly high in the western parts. Additionally, forecasts indicate potential storms and rain in north Bengal.
On Saturday, rain is expected in Kolkata, Hooghly, Howrah, North and South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, and East Burdwan districts. Gusty winds with speeds of 40 to 50 km per hour are also anticipated.
On Sunday, rainfall might increase slightly in some areas of south Bengal. On Monday, light rain could affect isolated spots in East Burdwan, West Burdwan, Birbhum, Murshidabad, Bankura, and Nadia, as per the weather department's predictions. Other districts in West Bengal may experience dry conditions. Improvement in weather is expected thereafter.
In north Bengal, rainfall is predicted to decrease on Sunday, with light to moderate showers in a few localized areas. On Monday, light rain may affect isolated locations across the five northern districts: Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, and Alipurduar.
Point of View
The ongoing weather disturbances in Kolkata and south Bengal highlight the growing unpredictability of climate patterns in the region. With significant figures like Union Home Minister Amit Shah affected, the implications of this severe weather extend beyond mere inconvenience, calling for a concerted response from local authorities.
NationPress
29 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the rain in Kolkata?
The current rainfall in Kolkata is primarily due to a western disturbance affecting the region.
How long will the rain last?
Rain is expected to continue throughout Saturday and Sunday with potential improvement afterwards.
What areas are under the 'Orange Alert'?
The 'Orange Alert' has been issued for six districts in south Bengal, including Kolkata.
What precautions should residents take?
Residents should be cautious of strong winds and possible lightning. It's advisable to stay indoors during severe weather.
Will temperatures drop further?
Yes, temperatures are expected to remain on the lower side due to the ongoing weather conditions.
