After a sweltering and humid start to Tuesday, Kolkata witnessed a sharp change in the weather during the afternoon. Around 2 pm, dark clouds gathered over the city, bringing heavy rain and strong winds that disrupted normal movement in several areas.
The spell of rain came as a relief for residents who had been enduring uncomfortable heat since morning.
Orange alert for Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly and adjoining districts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Kolkata and several neighbouring districts for the next two to three hours from 2:40 pm.
Also Read | North Bengal braces for heavy rainfall; IMD forecasts thunderstorms in several South Bengal districts
IMD issues orange alert as thunderstorms sweep across south Bengal /ANI The alert covers Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas and Nadia. Purulia has also been placed under the orange warning category.
According to the weather office, these districts are likely to experience thunderstorms accompanied by moderate to heavy rainfall during the period.
Strong winds and lightning likely
The IMD has warned of lightning activity along with gusty winds. Wind speeds are expected to remain between 40 kmph and 50 kmph in the affected areas.
The combination of rain, thunderstorm activity and strong winds may lead to localised disruptions in some places.
Dark clouds, gusty winds and rain disrupt normal life in Kolkata /ANI Also Read | Kolkata witnesses exceptional June downpour as temperatures tumble
Weather department advises caution
With lightning expected in several districts, the weather department has urged people to stay indoors or move to safe locations during the storm.
Residents have been advised to avoid open spaces and take necessary precautions until weather conditions improve.
