Heavy Rain Lashes Kolkata, IMD Issues Red Alert In These Districts Of West Bengal

The IMD has confirmed that South Bengal is likely to experience rainfall and thunderstorms on February 19-20 and again on February 22-23.

Kolkata along with other districts in the southern part of West Bengal experienced heavy rainfall and thunderstorms on Thursday as the skies over the capital city witnessed convective clouds since morning. The IMD has issued a red for the districts covering the middle part of West Bengal and an orange alert for South Bengal, warning of continued thunderstorms and the possibility of hail and thundershowers throughout the day. It has also predicated a scattered rain in the North Bengal.

The IMD has predicted thunderstorms across South Bengal, including Kolkata, until Sunday, with wind speeds ranging from 30 to 40 kmph in Kolkata, East Medinipur, and South 24 Parganas. While the current weather conditions are expected to continue through the weekend, a shift is anticipated starting Monday, according to India Express.

As per the IMD, South Bengal is likely to experience rainfall and thunderstorms on February 19-20 and again on February 22-23. A trough extending from Gangetic West Bengal to Telangana, along with strong moisture inflow from the Bay of Bengal, is contributing to this weather pattern. Some areas may also witness hailstorms and strong winds.

IMD Caution Of Possible Damage To Rabi Crops

On February 20, heavy rain, lightning, thunderstorms, hail, and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) are forecasted in Purulia, West Midnapore, Bankura, East Burdwan, West Burdwan, and Hooghly. Kolkata, East Midnapore, Howrah, and South 24 Parganas may experience thunderstorms, lightning, and winds at speeds of 30-40 kmph.

For February 22, similar conditions are expected in East Burdwan, West Burdwan, Jhargram, West Midnapore, North 24 Parganas, Hooghly, and Nadia, with heavy rainfall and strong winds of 40-50 kmph. Other districts in South Bengal are also likely to experience thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph.

On February 24, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, North 24 Parganas, and South 24 Parganas are predicted to witness thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds (30-40 kmph), while other South Bengal districts may see light rain.

The IMD has cautioned about possible damage to mature rabi crops, vegetables, and unsecured thatched houses. Officials have also warned of potential lightning strikes, particularly in open areas. Farmers are advised to harvest and securely store their crops to prevent damage.