West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Kolkata and several districts of West Bengal are expected to experience a fresh spell of rain and thunderstorms beginning today, as meteorological conditions indicate the development of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal by May 27. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for moderate to heavy rainfall, thunderstorm activity, and gusty winds across various parts of the state in the coming days.

According to the IMD’s regional center in Alipore, pre-monsoon activity is gaining momentum in eastern India as atmospheric instability increases due to the anticipated low-pressure system. “A cyclonic circulation is currently brewing over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas. Under its influence, a low-pressure area is very likely to form around May 27, which could lead to intensified rainfall activity over the eastern coastal regions, including West Bengal, Odisha, and parts of the Northeast,” an official statement said.

Starting today, districts such as South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Howrah, Hooghly, and Kolkata are likely to witness scattered to widespread rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Gusty winds, with speeds ranging from 30 to 50 km/h, may also occur, especially in coastal and adjoining inland areas.

Meteorologists are closely monitoring the potential low-pressure system, which could intensify further over the next few days. While it is too early to confirm the possibility of a full-fledged cyclone, weather models suggest that the system could strengthen into a well-marked low or depression as it moves north-westwards toward the Indian coast. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea from May 26 onwards due to rough conditions expected in the Bay of Bengal.

Kolkata experienced light showers early this morning, providing some relief from the prevailing heat and humidity. The maximum temperature is expected to dip slightly, with daytime highs ranging between 33°C and 35°C over the next few days. The IMD has also forecast thunderstorm activity during evening hours in the city, with a high probability of lightning strikes.

The state administration is preparing for any possible escalation in weather severity. Disaster management teams have been alerted, and district officials in coastal and riverine areas have been instructed to remain on standby. “We are coordinating closely with the meteorological department and have directed all district administrations to ensure that emergency protocols are in place, especially in vulnerable regions,” said a senior official from the West Bengal Disaster Management Department.

The expected rainfall is being seen as a prelude to the southwest monsoon, which is currently advancing over the Andaman Sea and parts of the southeast Bay of Bengal. This upcoming low-pressure event could potentially facilitate the monsoon’s progression toward the Indian mainland, depending on its movement and strength.

Agricultural experts are hopeful that the rains could benefit early kharif crop sowing in parts of southern Bengal. However, they also cautioned against the risks of localized flooding if rainfall becomes too intense in a short period, especially in low-lying and poorly drained urban areas.

As the state readies for this weather development, residents are advised to take precautions, avoid unnecessary travel during thunderstorms, and stay updated with official bulletins. Mobile alerts and updates from the IMD and local authorities will provide real-time information on changing weather patterns over the next week.

With the Bay of Bengal entering a period of heightened activity, all eyes are on the system developing offshore — a reminder of how quickly tropical weather events can evolve and impact millions across India’s eastern seaboard.