West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; May 22, 2026: Weather conditions has emerged across West Bengal, with large parts of South Bengal reeling under intense heat and humidity while several districts in North Bengal continue to witness persistent rain and storm activity.

The India Meteorological Department at Alipore, residents of Kolkata and multiple southern districts are struggling through severe discomfort caused by soaring temperatures and oppressive moisture levels. Weather officials have indicated that there is little immediate possibility of widespread rainfall across South Bengal, meaning the uncomfortable conditions are likely to continue for the next few days.

Scattered light showers may occur in isolated pockets, but meteorologists believe these brief spells will not bring any meaningful relief from the prevailing heatwave-like situation. The western districts of the state are expected to experience the harshest conditions, with temperatures likely to rise by another 2 to 3 degrees Celsius.

Districts including Purulia, Bankura, Jhargram, Paschim Bardhaman, and Paschim Medinipur are expected to remain the worst affected by the intense heat. Even in districts where temperatures are comparatively lower, high humidity levels are continuing to make conditions extremely uncomfortable for residents.

The weather office has warned that the present pattern is likely to persist until May 25 or 26, after which a gradual dip in temperatures may begin across parts of South Bengal. Until then, dry weather combined with humid conditions is expected to dominate the region.

North Bengal is likely to remain under the influence of active rain-bearing systems over the coming four to five days. The upper five districts are expected to receive light to moderate rainfall accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorms.

The districts of Darjeeling, Alipurduar, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri are likely to witness heavy rainfall during this period. Meteorologists have further warned that rainfall intensity may increase significantly from May 23 onward, raising the possibility of stronger winds and more persistent showers across the Himalayan and sub-Himalayan regions of the state.