South Bengal Heat Rises
The southern regions of West Bengal are preparing for a significant increase in heat and humidity as the week progresses. Many districts, including the bustling
areas of Howrah, Hooghly, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Nadia, and East Midnapore, are expected to experience predominantly dry weather. Temperatures are predicted to climb by a noticeable 2-3°C over the coming days. In the western parts of the state, daytime highs could reach an uncomfortable 38-39°C, creating a very warm environment. Although a formal heatwave alert hasn't been issued, the combination of escalating temperatures and high humidity levels will likely make the afternoons feel considerably more oppressive. Kolkata itself will see clear skies evolving into partly cloudy conditions by the afternoon, with maximum temperatures hovering around 35°C and minimums near 27°C. The persistent high humidity will exacerbate the feeling of warmth. No rainfall has been registered recently, and this dry trend is forecast to continue. Throughout the week, expect temperatures to tick upwards slightly, with an increased frequency of partly cloudy afternoons.
Northern Showers Expected
In stark contrast to the southern plains, the northern districts of West Bengal are set to receive welcome showers and thunderstorms. Areas like Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri are likely to experience light to moderate rain and thundershowers across multiple locations throughout the entire week. While Alipurduar and Cooch Behar might see rainfall that is lighter and more scattered, the overall outlook for these regions is wetter. Thunderstorm activity is predicted to be active in the hilly terrains, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing warnings for gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-40 kmph and lightning strikes in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri over the next few days. Residents in these areas are advised to seek immediate shelter during storms, staying away from open fields and structures that could be vulnerable to lightning.
Transitional Zones & Alerts
A transition zone of weather is also anticipated in certain western and northeastern districts. While most of the southern districts will remain dry, some western areas such as Jhargram, Purulia, Bankura, West Midnapore, Birbhum, and parts of West Bardhaman may witness isolated instances of light rain or thundershowers starting from the middle of the week. The IMD has specifically highlighted that from around April 14th onwards, several districts, particularly Jhargram, Purulia, and Bankura, could face hot and humid conditions. In these specific locations, there's also a potential for thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds of 40-50 kmph and lightning on certain days. To combat the intensifying heat and humidity, residents in these vulnerable districts are strongly advised to limit their exposure to direct sunlight during the late morning and afternoon hours and to ensure they remain adequately hydrated throughout the day.
Malda & Dinajpur Outlook
The districts of Malda, North Dinajpur, and South Dinajpur present a mixed weather scenario for the upcoming week. Initially, these regions are expected to remain largely dry, mirroring the conditions in the southern parts of the state. However, the forecast indicates a possibility of isolated rainfall occurring later in the week. This suggests a gradual shift from dry spells to potentially experiencing some precipitation as the week unfolds. While not predicted to be as intense as the rain in the northern hills, any rainfall in these areas will offer some respite from the increasing temperatures. The overall trend across West Bengal points to a steady rise in temperatures by 2-3°C, with humidity levels climbing in the southern districts, while the northern parts continue to benefit from periodic rain and thunderstorms, creating a distinct geographical division in the weather patterns.
