The second phase of the assembly elections is underway across seven districts of South Bengal on Wednesday, but the weather has added an unexpected twist. What began as a cloudy morning over Kolkata and nearby regions soon turned into a rain-soaked day, with showers intensifying as the hours passed.
The sky remained overcast through the morning, gradually growing heavier. By midday, rain had set in across several parts of the region, affecting polling conditions in multiple constituencies.
Rain, thunderstorms likely with winds up to 60 kmph
According to the weather department, Kolkata and adjoining areas are likely to experience light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms through the day. Wind speeds may reach 50 to 60 km per hour, raising concerns over disruptions during the polling process.
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The forecast also indicates that the current spell is not a short-lived one. Heavy rainfall is expected to continue until Thursday. While there may be some relief from Friday, wet conditions are likely to persist across South Bengal, including Kolkata, until Sunday.
The rainfall is not limited to the city. Several districts, including Howrah and Hooghly, have also reported showers since morning. Rural pockets in these districts have been affected as well, with rain continuing intermittently.
In Domjur assembly constituency, voters at Akshay Nagar Pallishree Sangha near Nishchinda police station were seen standing in queues with umbrellas for over two hours to cast their votes. Similar scenes were reported from multiple polling booths across affected districts.
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Voters brave rain, queues continue across districts
Despite the rain and gusty winds, turnout activities have continued steadily. Visuals from different constituencies show voters braving the conditions, many carrying umbrellas while waiting in line.
Rainfall has also been reported from Jaynagar, Kultali, and parts of West Midnapore, indicating that the weather system has spread across a wide stretch of South Bengal.
With polling ongoing, authorities continue to monitor both the electoral process and weather developments closely, as rain remains a key factor influencing the day’s proceedings.
