BJP is set to form the government after securing an absolute majority in the Assembly elections, with the new cabinet’s swearing-in ceremony scheduled for Saturday morning at Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata. However, weather conditions may affect the event as the city and several districts across Bengal are likely to witness more rain and thunderstorms over the weekend.
According to the latest update from the Alipore Meteorological Department, Kolkata is expected to remain cloudy throughout Saturday. Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms may occur in the afternoon, while gusty winds could reach speeds of 40 to 50 kmph.
Rain continues across Kolkata
Thunderstorms have been affecting Kolkata over the last few days, bringing relief from the intense summer heat. Data from the weather office showed that the city received 1.8 mm of rainfall between 6:30 AM on Friday and 6:30 AM on Saturday.
The impact of the rain has also been visible in the temperature readings. On Friday, Kolkata recorded a maximum temperature of 32.6 degrees Celsius, which was 3.1 degrees below normal for this time of the year. The minimum temperature settled at 23.6 degrees Celsius, around 3.2 degrees below normal.
Also Read | Rabindra Jayanti: From manuscripts to memories, a walk through Tagore's childhood home
Why is Bengal seeing frequent thunderstorms?
The weather department said a cyclonic circulation over eastern Bihar, extending through Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, is pulling moisture into Bengal from the Bay of Bengal. This weather pattern has created favourable conditions for thunderstorms and rainfall across the state.
South Bengal likely to witness strong storm activity
Most districts of South Bengal are expected to receive rain with thunderstorms on Saturday. Purulia, Bankura, East Bardhaman, West Bardhaman and Hooghly are likely to see the strongest storm activity, with wind speeds ranging between 40 and 50 kmph.
In Kolkata and nearby districts, wind speeds may remain between 30 and 40 kmph along with scattered rain.
The weather office has also forecast thunderstorms for Sunday, particularly in western districts such as Bankura, Purulia, Jhargram and West Midnapore. However, from Monday onward, thunderstorm activity is expected to reduce, and temperatures may gradually rise again.
Also Read | PM Modi, 23 CMs at Brigade swearing-in on Saturday: Which Kolkata roads will face traffic restrictions?
Rain forecast for North Bengal
North Bengal is also expected to experience scattered thunderstorms until Saturday afternoon. Districts including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, Cooch Behar and Jalpaiguri may receive rain accompanied by gusty winds. Similar weather conditions are likely in Malda and both North and South Dinajpur districts.
Officials said the chances of rainfall in North Bengal are expected to decrease from Sunday onward.
