Residents of Kolkata can expect a mix of rain, thunderstorms and humid weather over the next week, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). While intermittent showers may offer temporary relief from the heat, high humidity levels are likely to keep conditions uncomfortable across the city, per a report by The Indian Express.
Rain likely, but humidity to remain high
The IMD has forecast partly cloudy skies with localised thunderstorms and light rainfall in Kolkata over the coming days. Temperatures are expected to stay above normal for this time of the year, with maximum temperatures hovering around 37 degree Celsius and minimum temperatures near 29.8 degree Celsius.
Humidity is also set to remain elevated. Relative humidity levels could rise to 86 per cent and fall to a minimum of 49 per cent, adding to the discomfort, especially during daytime hours, reported The Indian Express.
Also Read | When will Bengal get relief from the heat? IMD predicts rain this week
The rainfall outlook comes as the southwest monsoon continues its gradual advance across the country.
People cross the road amid heavy rain, in Kolkata. File image/ANI Monsoon advances across southern India
As of June 4, the southwest monsoon has progressed into several parts of southern India, including Mangalore, Uthagamandalam, Kodaikanal and Thoothukudi. The IMD said conditions remain favourable for further advancement over the next two to three days.
The weather system is expected to cover the entire state of Goa and parts of Maharashtra, additional regions of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, the remaining parts of Tamil Nadu, sections of the Bay of Bengal and parts of the northeastern states.
Also Read | Kolkata braces for hotter days as rainfall retreats across Bengal
Yellow alert across Bengal
Per The Indian Express, The IMD has issued a yellow alert for both South Bengal and North Bengal from Thursday through next Wednesday.
In South Bengal, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are likely across all districts on multiple days during the week. Authorities have cautioned that lightning strikes in open areas could cause localised damage to standing crops and horticultural fields. Daytime temperatures across Gangetic West Bengal are not expected to witness any major changes.
North Bengal remains under a daily yellow alert, with rainfall of 7-11 cm forecast in several districts. Heavy showers may be accompanied by gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph and an increased risk of lightning. Temperatures in sub-Himalayan West Bengal are expected to fall by 2-3 degrees after the initial 24-hour period.
Also Read | Heat returns to South Bengal as rain stays away; North Bengal braces for heavy showers
Advisory for vulnerable groups
The IMD has advised vulnerable groups, including infants, elderly individuals and people with chronic respiratory or metabolic conditions, to take precautions against heat-related health issues. Meanwhile, no warning has been issued for fishermen, with coastal conditions along the West Bengal coast remaining stable.
