As Kolkata braces for a much-needed respite from the sweltering heat, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted thunderstorms and rainfall across several districts of West Bengal, starting from April 10, 2025. The weather pattern is expected to bring relief to residents who have been enduring high temperatures typical for this time of year.
According to the IMD, Kolkata is likely to experience rain in the evening, with the possibility of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning. This forecast comes as a welcome change from the intense heat that has gripped the region. The maximum temperature recorded in Kolkata on Wednesday, April 9, was 34.2 degrees Celsius, slightly below the normal average, while the minimum temperature is expected to hover around 26 degrees Celsius.
For much of West Bengal, particularly in the northern regions, thunderstorms are anticipated to intensify, with gusty winds reaching speeds of 50 to 60 kilometers per hour. Areas such as Malda, North Dinajpur, and South Dinajpur are under alert for severe weather conditions, including lightning and light to moderate rainfall. The IMD has issued warnings that heavy rainfall, ranging from 7 to 11 centimeters, is likely in districts like Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, and North Dinajpur.
On April 11, similar weather conditions are expected, with gusty winds again reaching 50 to 60 kilometers per hour in the aforementioned districts. The rest of North Bengal may see milder gusts of 40 to 50 kilometers per hour, along with thunderstorms and rainfall. The IMD has also indicated that all districts in North Bengal will likely witness thunderstorms with gusty winds, lightning, and light to moderate rainfall on April 12.
In Southern West Bengal, the weather forecast is slightly different. The region, which has been suffering from persistent heat, is expected to receive scattered showers that could provide some relief. Districts such as Purulia, Paschim Bardhaman, Birbhum, and Murshidabad are likely to experience thunderstorms with gusty winds (40 to 50 kilometers per hour) and light to moderate rainfall on April 10 and 11.
As the weekend approaches, widespread rainfall is anticipated across the state, particularly on April 12 and 13. The IMD has warned that urban areas may face disruptions due to the severe weather, with potential damage to crops and horticultural produce. Citizens are advised to seek shelter during thunderstorms and avoid standing under trees or electric poles due to the risk of lightning strikes.
In addition to the immediate forecast, the IMD has noted that a trough runs from southeast Madhya Pradesh to east Gangetic West Bengal, which is contributing to the favorable conditions for thunderstorms. Strong moisture incursions from the Bay of Bengal are expected to continue fueling these weather patterns.
Authorities are also cautioning residents about the heat that is expected to intensify again from mid-April, with average temperatures in Bengal potentially exceeding 40 degrees Celsius and reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius in Kolkata. As the state transitions from the heat to the rain, it is crucial for residents to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from adverse weather conditions.
In summary, West Bengal is on the brink of a significant weather shift, as thunderstorms and rainfall are set to sweep across the region, bringing much-needed relief from the oppressive heat. With the IMD's warnings in place, residents are urged to prepare for the upcoming storms and stay safe during this transition.
