As the weather in Kolkata and surrounding areas of West Bengal shifts dramatically, residents are bracing for a series of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall expected to impact the region starting Thursday, April 18, 2025. A low-pressure area stretching from Madhya Pradesh to South Bengal, combined with another weather system located 3 to 6 kilometers above sea level from Sikkim to North Odisha, is influencing the regional climate, bringing unsettled weather conditions.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), all districts in West Bengal are likely to experience rain accompanied by thundershowers over the next few days. The IMD has reported that thunderstorms, along with gusty winds, are anticipated in parts of West Burdwan, Murshidabad, Nadia, North 24 Parganas, and Birbhum. Significant impacts from these storms are expected on April 18, with wind speeds reaching between 50 and 60 km/h.
On April 17, the weather in Kolkata is forecasted to be warm and humid, with temperatures fluctuating between 26.1°C and 36.3°C. An 82% chance of moderate rainfall is expected in the late afternoon, with precipitation amounts estimated at 10.49 mm. Winds will be brisk, reaching speeds of up to 31 km/h, and humidity levels will hover around 66%. The day is characterized by typical pre-monsoon conditions, combining warmth with increased chances of rain.
As the week progresses, the weather outlook indicates a mix of rain and rising temperatures. April 18 is projected to bring heavy rainfall, with expected precipitation of 51.22 mm and temperatures ranging from 23.8°C to 34.7°C. Following this, April 19 will see patchy rain with a high of 33.8°C, and moderate rain is anticipated on April 20, with temperatures reaching up to 35.8°C.
From April 21 to 23, the forecast suggests drier conditions but rising temperatures, potentially hitting 37°C. Local authorities have urged residents to monitor weather updates closely and avoid low-lying areas during heavy downpours, particularly on April 18, when significant rainfall is expected.
In addition to the weather events in West Bengal, the IMD has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall in neighboring states, including Bihar, Assam, and Meghalaya. Hailstorm-like conditions with gusty winds reaching 50 km/h are expected in Odisha and Jharkhand, while widespread scattered rainfall is predicted in Chhattisgarh, Assam, Meghalaya, Mainpuri, Mizoram, and Tripura. Thunderstorm-like conditions are also anticipated in Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, whereas heatwave conditions are likely to prevail in parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat.
The current weather patterns highlight Kolkata's transition into its pre-monsoon phase, where periods of rainfall are interspersed with rising temperatures. Residents are advised to remain prepared for varying weather conditions, especially during the predicted heavy rainfall on April 18, which could lead to localized waterlogging in some areas.
In summary, the coming days will see a significant shift in weather across West Bengal, with thunderstorms, strong winds, and heavy rainfall expected. Residents should take necessary precautions and stay informed as the region navigates these changing weather patterns.