Kolkata is set to see a stormy Wednesday as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for April 8. It has also issued a warning of rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds. Wind speeds during thundersqualls may reach 50 to 60 kmph, raising the risk of disruptions across the city. The alert signals the possibility of impactful weather conditions, with residents advised to remain cautious during intense spells.
According to the latest IMD bulletin, Kolkata will experience spells of rain accompanied by thunder and lightning throughout the day. The weather office has clearly indicated that rainfall activity will intensify, driven by favourable atmospheric conditions over the region. Meteorologists expect one or two spells of nor’westers to affect Kolkata and nearby districts, particularly during the afternoon or evening hours.
Yellow alert for Thursday
The unsettled weather is expected to continue into Thursday, with the IMD placing the city under a yellow alert. Thunderstorms with rain, lightning, and gusty winds of 30 to 40 kmph are likely. While slightly less intense than Wednesday, these conditions could still lead to brief disruptions.
What is causing the weather shift?
A combination of weather systems is behind the current pattern. An upper-air cyclonic circulation persists over Odisha and adjoining regions. In addition, a trough extends from Gangetic West Bengal to the Gulf of Mannar, passing through parts of southern India. Strong moisture inflow from the Bay of Bengal is further fueling thunderstorm activity. An approaching western disturbance is also expected to enhance rainfall intensity over the next couple of days.
The IMD has indicated that conditions may begin to improve from Friday. The city is likely to see a partly cloudy sky, with only a chance of isolated thunder and lightning.
Earlier this week, Kolkata recorded 6 mm of rainfall on Monday night, which brought some relief from the heat. Tuesday’s minimum temperature dropped to 20.2C, while the maximum settled at 32C.
