As Chaitra comes to an end, South Bengal continues to reel under intense and uncomfortable heat, with little sign of respite even as the region prepares to welcome the Bengali New Year. Tuesday’s Chaitra Sankranti and Wednesday’s Poila Boishakh celebrations are likely to be marked by high temperatures and humidity, making outdoor activities challenging.
Despite partly cloudy skies, Kolkata is not expected to receive any rainfall on Poila Boishakh. The city woke up to a minimum temperature of 27.5 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, which is 1.9 degrees above normal. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 34.9 degrees Celsius, slightly below normal by 0.8 degrees. However, the humidity levels are likely to keep conditions uncomfortable throughout the day.
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Heat and discomfort across South Bengal
The weather department has issued warnings for continued heat and discomfort across several districts of South Bengal. Areas including Purulia, Bankura, Jhargram and West Midnapore are expected to experience oppressive weather conditions during Chaitra Sankranti.
While there is a possibility of light rainfall in districts such as Purulia, Bankura, Jhargram, West Bardhaman and Birbhum on Poila Boishakh and the following day, it is unlikely to bring significant relief. Gusty winds with speeds reaching 40 to 50 km per hour may accompany these showers in some western districts.
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Thunderstorm activity in North Bengal
In contrast, North Bengal is likely to witness more weather conditions. Thunderstorms are forecast on both Chaitra Sankranti and Poila Boishakh. Districts including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar may receive light to moderate rainfall, along with gusty winds ranging between 30 and 40 km per hour.
However, this relief may be short-lived. From Thursday onwards, temperatures are expected to rise again, particularly in the northern plains.
Overall, the festive days ahead are set to unfold under warm and humid conditions, with only limited and temporary weather relief in some regions.