kolkata

Kolkata, April 21: Large parts of South Bengal are reeling under intense heat as soaring temperatures combined with rising humidity levels have triggered widespread discomfort across the region. The Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata has indicated that there is little possibility of significant rainfall in South Bengal in the coming days, offering no immediate relief from the oppressive weather conditions.

The weather office, warm winds entering the state from the western and north-western directions are contributing to the sharp rise in temperature. The continuous inflow of dry and hot air, coupled with the increasing intensity of the sun during the Bengali month of Baishakh, has resulted in sweltering afternoons and sticky evenings. Even if isolated showers occur in one or two places, meteorologists believe that such brief spells will not substantially reduce the prevailing heat.

The discomfort is expected to persist at least until April 25, with districts across South Bengal likely to experience hot and humid conditions. Authorities have issued a heat alert for five districts where both temperature and humidity levels are projected to climb significantly. These districts include Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, Purulia, Bankura and Paschim Bardhaman. Residents in these areas have been advised to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

On Tuesday morning, Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 26.0 degrees Celsius, which was marginally 0.2 degrees below normal. However, the marginal dip in minimum temperature has done little to ease overall discomfort as daytime temperatures continue to climb steadily. The combination of high moisture content in the air and elevated mercury levels is making conditions particularly oppressive, especially during the afternoon hours.

While South Bengal remains largely dry, weather conditions in North Bengal are expected to be relatively different. The meteorological department has forecast the possibility of rain accompanied by thunderstorms in parts of North Bengal. Such activity, however, is unlikely to have any significant impact on the prevailing heatwave-like situation in the southern districts.

The steady increase in temperature during Baishakh is not uncommon, yet the added factor of persistent humidity has amplified the sense of discomfort this season. Health experts often caution that prolonged exposure to extreme heat and humidity can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other related ailments, particularly among children, the elderly, and those working outdoors.

With no major weather system currently active over South Bengal to bring widespread rain, residents may have to brace for several more days of sultry conditions. As the sun beats down relentlessly and warm winds continue to sweep across the plains, South Bengal remains firmly in the grip of early summer’s intense and humid spell.