West Bengal is likely to experience a significant rise in temperatures in March with prolonged dry spells and increasing heat predicted in the southern districts, including Kolkata, according to the latest weather update from the India Meteorological Department.

The IMD on Saturday stated that there would be an increase of 2-3 degree Celsius in temperatures over the next 48 hours. For Kolkata, the local forecast for the next 24 hours (mid-day) indicates mainly clear skies, while the maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to be around 33˚C and 23˚C, respectively.

The northern part of the state, though, may see scattered rainfall in its hilly regions, it said.

Weather experts say that residents of Gangetic West Bengal should be ready for stable minimum and maximum temperatures over the next five days with the intensity of heat projected to escalate from the beginning of March. “Unfortunately, there is no prospect of rain in South Bengal for the next seven days, indicating a prolonged dry spell,” said an officer.

Like the rest of South Bengal, Kolkata has no rain forecast, he said.

Morning fog is expected in some districts of South Bengal, which may lead to low visibility. However, conditions are expected to normalize after sunrise, he added.

In contrast, North Bengal’s hilly districts are likely to experience light rainfall. Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Alipurduar may receive light rain on Saturday. Despite the rain, North Bengal districts will also witness an increase of 2-3 degrees in temperature over the next few days.