kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Kolkata, October 1: The major relief for people across West Bengal ahead of the Durga Puja festivities, the Alipore Meteorological Office has forecast predominantly dry weather across most parts of the state over the next few days. While isolated areas may experience light and scattered showers, there is no indication of any major weather disturbance or heavy rainfall that could disrupt Puja preparations and celebrations.

The latest forecast, most districts of South Bengal are expected to experience mainly dry weather for the next seven days. Although a few places may receive light rain locally, the showers are unlikely to have any significant impact on the festive season. The forecast is expected to bring considerable relief to residents, especially those who are busy with last-minute Puja shopping, pandal visits and other preparations.

The weather situation in North Bengal, however, is likely to be somewhat different. While the weather is expected to remain largely dry across the region today and tomorrow, several areas in the northern districts may witness light to moderate rainfall between October 2 and October 4. The five upper districts of North Bengal — Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar — are likely to see rain at a number of places during this period.

Despite the possibility of rain in parts of North Bengal, no widespread or severe weather conditions have been indicated. The forecast suggests that the overall weather pattern across the state will remain relatively comfortable during the Puja period, with South Bengal in particular expected to stay mostly dry.

Signs of the southwest monsoon's withdrawal have started becoming visible across eastern India. According to the weather department, the southwest monsoon is likely to begin withdrawing from parts of Bihar and Jharkhand within the next two to three days. The gradual retreat of the monsoon is expected to bring a more stable and predominantly dry weather pattern to several parts of the region.

In Kolkata and adjoining areas, the sky is likely to remain partly cloudy over the next 24 hours. The maximum temperature is expected to remain around 33 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may stay close to 27 degrees Celsius. These temperatures are broadly in line with the seasonal normal for the city at this time of the year.

The weather outlook is therefore being viewed as favourable for the festive rush in Kolkata and across South Bengal. With no forecast of heavy or widespread rainfall, residents are expected to be able to continue their Puja shopping and outdoor plans with relatively little disruption. While isolated light showers cannot be completely ruled out, the overall forecast points towards predominantly dry conditions, offering much-needed relief to people preparing to welcome Durga Puja.