(Written by Adrija Datta)
West Bengal is set to get some relief from the heat, with light rain and thunderstorms forecast by the IMD on Monday across several districts until Wednesday, May 7.
The ongoing spell of pre-monsoon activity is expected to bring localised thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds and lightning. Winds are expected to blow at speeds of 40-50 kmph. An alert has been issued to caution residents about possible disruptions due to sudden weather changes.
However, the department also warned that hot and humid conditions will return with greater intensity later in the week.
A senior official from the IMD said, “There will be no significant fluctuation in daytime temperatures across most regions of West Bengal over the next 48 hours. However, beginning May 9, a noticeable rise in temperature — ranging between 3 to 5 degrees Celsius — is anticipated. This temperature increase is likely to affect both southern West Bengal, which includes Kolkata and its adjoining districts, as well as northern West Bengal, comprising areas in the northern part of the state.”
South Bengal, which has been experiencing sporadic rainfall and brief relief from the prevailing heat, is expected to return to hot and humid conditions starting Thursday. Meteorologists have advised residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses as the mercury climbs steadily towards the weekend.
In contrast, districts in North Bengal (specifically Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, and Alipurduar) are forecast to receive light to moderate rainfall throughout the week. The hilly regions may also witness intermittent thundershowers, which could potentially affect visibility and road conditions in elevated terrains. Authorities in these areas have been alerted to prepare for any local disruptions.
Farmers and daily wage workers have been particularly advised to plan their activities according to the forecast.
With the transitional weather phase underway, the state is likely to oscillate between brief spells of rainfall and rising summer heat, marking a typical pre-monsoon climate pattern across West Bengal.