A spell of Nor'wester storms has finally brought much-needed relief to South Bengal, leading to a sharp drop in temperatures after days of oppressive heat and humidity.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Kolkata's minimum temperature fell significantly following Friday's thunderstorms and rainfall. While the city recorded a minimum temperature of 28.2C on Thursday, it dropped to 23C on Friday, marking a decline of more than 5 C.
The sudden change in weather has provided a temporary respite from the scorching conditions that had gripped the region over the past several days.
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Will it rain in Kolkata today?
Kolkata woke up to partly cloudy skies and mild sunshine on Saturday morning. The weather office has forecast a strong possibility of thunderstorms and rain in Kolkata and adjoining areas later in the day.
/ANI The pleasant weather conditions are expected to continue through Sunday, keeping temperatures relatively comfortable compared to recent days.
Thunderstorm alert for several South Bengal districts
The IMD has predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and rainfall in several districts of South Bengal on Saturday.
The districts likely to be affected include:
East Medinipur
West Medinipur
Jhargram
Purulia
Bankura
East Bardhaman
West Bardhaman
Birbhum
Murshidabad
Similar weather conditions are expected to persist on Sunday.
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Temperature likely to rise again from Monday
While the current spell of rain has brought relief, meteorologists have indicated that the respite may not last long.
From Monday onward, temperatures are expected to rise gradually across South Bengal. By Wednesday, the mercury could climb by 2C to 3C, signalling a return of warmer conditions.
/ANI North Bengal weather forecast
In North Bengal, moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is likely in Malda, North Dinajpur and South Dinajpur on Saturday. The IMD has also forecast gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 40 kmph in these districts.
Rainfall activity is expected to reduce slightly on Sunday and Monday. However, weather conditions may become favourable for increased rainfall once again from Wednesday.
The recent Nor'wester showers have offered welcome relief to residents battling high temperatures across Bengal. However, with temperatures expected to rise again next week, the break from the heat is likely to be short-lived.