West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK :  May 28 — A fresh spell of monsoon-like weather is all set to drench West Bengal over the next few days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting widespread rainfall across the state. The alert has been sounded for both southern and northern districts, with possibilities of heavy to very heavy showers in some areas. People have been advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions, especially in low-lying regions that are prone to waterlogging.

According to the IMD’s latest bulletin, a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal, coupled with strong moisture-laden winds, is likely to trigger intense rain activity in the region. The system is expected to move gradually towards the Bengal coastline, bringing with it gusty winds and cloudbursts in several parts of the state. Meteorologists suggest that the weather pattern resembles early monsoon conditions, although the official monsoon onset in Bengal is still a few days away.

Southern Bengal, particularly districts like Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, North and South 24 Parganas, Nadia, and East Midnapore, are likely to witness significant rainfall from Tuesday night through Thursday. Urban areas, including the Kolkata Metropolitan Region, may experience severe waterlogging, traffic snarls, and temporary power disruptions if the rain intensifies during peak hours. City officials have already put disaster response teams and pumping stations on alert to mitigate any flooding risks.

North Bengal is also expected to receive substantial rainfall. Areas such as Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri, and Cooch Behar are under watch for heavy showers that may lead to landslides and flash floods in hilly terrains. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for these regions, urging local administrations to remain vigilant.

"The synoptic condition is favourable for enhanced rainfall activity across West Bengal for the next 48 to 72 hours," said an official from the Regional Meteorological Centre in Alipore. "This is not the monsoon onset, but the weather is certainly turning wet due to pre-monsoon developments. Residents should keep umbrellas handy and avoid unnecessary travel during intense spells," the official added.

Farmers in the state, especially those in southern Bengal who have been waiting for the first substantial pre-monsoon rains to prepare their fields, have welcomed the forecast. The rain will aid soil moisture retention ahead of sowing for the Kharif season. However, agricultural experts have also warned of potential damage to stored crops and fruits in case of strong winds and localized hailstorms.

Transport departments and civic bodies in Kolkata and surrounding areas have activated their emergency control rooms and maintenance teams to respond swiftly in case of disruptions. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has said that it will monitor water levels in critical pockets like Ultadanga, Behala, Kidderpore, and parts of North Kolkata where drainage remains a chronic issue during heavy rains.

Residents are also being advised to stay away from large trees and billboards during thunderstorms, and not to wade through flooded streets to avoid accidents or electrocution. The state power department has issued safety advisories as well, emphasizing caution around electrical infrastructure.

With schools and colleges currently operating as usual, authorities are closely watching the situation. Any decision regarding closures or schedule changes will depend on how the weather unfolds in the next 24 hours.

As West Bengal braces for a wet and stormy spell, all eyes are now on the skies and the weather charts. For now, the rains may offer much-needed relief from the summer heat, but preparedness will be key to managing the challenges that may come along with it.