Severe weather conditions are set to disrupt the plans for the Indian Premier League (IPL) as it kicks off today in Kolkata, with forecasts of thunderstorms and rain threatening to affect both the opening ceremony and the much-anticipated match between the Kolkata Knight Riders and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that widespread thunderstorms, along with hail, will be present in various districts across both North and South Bengal on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Districts expected to be impacted include Kolkata, North and South 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, and East and West Medinipur, with disturbances predicted to continue into Sunday.
According to the Alipur Meteorological Department, "The opening ceremony and match at Eden Gardens might be disrupted by rain." The threat of rain could significantly hinder the inaugural events of the IPL season, causing concerns for fans and teams alike.
Weather forecasts also indicate that the combined influences of a cyclonic circulation and local humidity levels are helping to create these perturbing storm conditions. "Hailstorms with thunderstorms are expected in districts like Birbhum and Murshidabad," REM4824575700reports the IMD. In a warning that has set local residents on alert, thunderstorms are expected to come with wind speeds ranging from 30 to 50 kilometers per hour.
Across the state, authorities are preparing for significant rainfall due to increasing humidity emanating from the Bay of Bengal. The Alipur Weather Office highlighted that "the Bay of Bengal's humidity is creating a conducive environment for rain across the state." This influx of moisture is set to create additional weather challenges as residents brace for conditions that could lead to severe storms.
The temperature in Kolkata has also been affected; today, it was recorded at around 27.7 degrees Celsius, slightly below the normal temperature for this time of year. With the arrival of rain, forecasted temperatures may decrease further, offering a temporary respite from the heat that many have been experiencing recently.
The forecasts have prompted authorities to issue a yellow alert in multiple districts, signaling residents to remain cautious. Fishermen have been particularly advised to stay off the water due to rough conditions, as air speeds could reach up to 50 kilometers per hour off the coast, likely making fishing treacherous.
Weather experts predict that the severe thunderstorms could continue well into Sunday, potentially affecting outdoor plans for thousands in the region. Humidity levels across South Bengal are estimated to be high, creating discomfort for many as the warm conditions persist amidst scattered rains.
Moreover, people in urban areas are urged to stay hydrated and be vigilant of the weather's developments over the weekend, as temperature fluctuations are likely in the coming days. As the rains temporarily relieve the oppressive heat of late March, residents should prepare for variable conditions in the days to follow, as stated by weather authorities.
Ultimately, West Bengal’s weather dynamics, with its mixture of heat, humidity, and impending rain, serve as a reminder of the complexities of seasonal transitions in the region. As the IPL takes center stage amid these challenges, spectators and teams alike hope for a minor miracle—that the storms will hold off long enough to allow the festivities to proceed.
