West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK : After days of sweltering heat and rising humidity, the city finally breathed a sigh of relief as a spell of heavy rainfall brought temperatures down by a significant 6 degrees. The showers, which began late Tuesday evening and continued intermittently through Wednesday morning, provided much-needed respite to residents who had been enduring an intense heatwave over the past week.

According to data from the regional meteorological department, the mercury, which had been hovering around 40°C earlier this week, dropped to nearly 34°C by mid-morning on Wednesday. The sudden dip in temperature has not only made conditions more bearable for citizens but also led to a noticeable improvement in air quality and humidity levels.

Meteorologists attributed the change in weather to the advancement of a western disturbance and favorable wind patterns that allowed moisture-laden clouds to move over the region. “This was a welcome and timely downpour. We expect light to moderate rainfall in the coming days, which will help stabilize temperatures further,” said an official from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

The rainfall, which lasted for over an hour in many parts of the city, caused minor waterlogging in low-lying areas, but no major disruptions were reported. Traffic movement slowed briefly during the downpour, particularly in central and southern parts of the city, but cleared up quickly once the intensity reduced6.

The cool breeze and overcast skies were a refreshing change. Many stepped out to enjoy the rain after days of being confined indoors due to the stifling heat. Social media platforms lit up with pictures and videos of the cloudy skies, drenched streets, and people enjoying cups of tea and roadside snacks in the rain.

Civic authorities have issued a reminder urging people to stay cautious, especially in areas prone to waterlogging or electrical hazards. With the temperature drop, there are also concerns about a spike in mosquito breeding and seasonal infections. Health officials have advised residents to take preventive measures and ensure clean surroundings.

Farmers in nearby districts also welcomed the rains, as the downpour is expected to aid in the preparation for the upcoming sowing season. “We were desperately waiting for the first pre-monsoon showers. This rain has come at the perfect time and will help soften the soil for planting,” said a farmer from a village near the city outskirts.

The IMD has forecast scattered rain over the next two to three days, accompanied by cloudy skies and occasional gusty winds. Temperatures are likely to remain below the 36°C mark for the rest of the week. This is expected to bring some continued comfort to the urban population as well as boost groundwater recharge.

While summer is far from over, this temporary dip in temperature has offered a welcome pause. Experts note that such sudden changes are becoming increasingly common due to changing climate patterns and urge both urban planners and citizens to adapt accordingly.

For now, the city gets a brief but blissful escape from the scorching heat. With more showers on the horizon, residents are hoping the weather continues to stay kind—at least for a little while longer.