IMD predicts thunderstorms and rain for Kolkata, parts of Bengal and Odisha in coming days

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted thunderstorms, rain, and strong winds in Kolkata, Odisha, and parts of West Bengal over the next few days. An anti-cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal and a trough running from central Odisha to Vidarbha are causing this weather change. The weather department also expects a slight drop in temperatures in eastern India, while Delhi may experience a gradual rise in temperature over the next few days.

Rain and storms in Kolkata and West Bengal

The IMD has predicted that Kolkata and other parts of Gangetic West Bengal will experience light to moderate rainfall from March 19 to 22. Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds with speeds between 40-60 kmph are also expected during this period.

According to the weather department, an anti-cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal at lower atmospheric levels is responsible for this weather pattern. Additionally, a trough stretching from central Odisha to Vidarbha is creating a confluence of winds over eastern and central India. This combination is causing the unstable weather conditions.

The IMD also predicted that sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim will witness isolated to scattered rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning on March 20 and 21. However, no significant change in maximum temperatures is expected in eastern India over the next two days. The minimum temperatures may fall by 4 to 6 degrees Celsius over the next three days.

Rising temperatures in Delhi and Odisha

In Delhi, the weather department recorded a maximum temperature of 32.8°C on Wednesday — which is 1.5 degrees above the normal range. The IMD expects a gradual rise in maximum temperatures by around 2°C over the next two days in northwest India. However, no significant changes in temperatures are expected after that.

Meanwhile, Odisha is facing a mixed weather pattern. While some parts are receiving light to moderate rainfall, certain districts are also experiencing heatwave-like conditions. The IMD predicts that Odisha will experience similar weather patterns from March 19 to 22, with rain and thunderstorms likely to ease afterward.

According to Odisha’s Disaster Management Minister, Suresh Pujari, heatwave conditions have already begun affecting certain parts of the state, nearly a month earlier than expected. Districts such as Boudh, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Bolangir, and Sundargarh are recording high temperatures.

Pujari mentioned that the coastal regions are also witnessing humid weather, making the conditions uncomfortable for residents. Since school examinations are ongoing and are expected to continue until March 27, the state government has issued guidelines to protect students and residents from the heat.

"The temperature has already started rising in many areas. We have instructed various departments and district collectors to take precautionary measures to handle the heatwave," said Pujari.

The combination of an anti-cyclonic circulation and a trough is causing these weather changes. Here’s how it works:

• The anti-cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal influences wind patterns and increases moisture levels, which leads to rain and thunderstorms.
• The trough running from central Odisha to Vidarbha creates instability in the atmosphere, encouraging the formation of rain clouds and gusty winds.
• The meeting point of these two systems over eastern and central India is causing unpredictable weather, including heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds.

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Impact on daily life

The unpredictable weather is affecting daily life in several ways:

• Traffic Disruption: Sudden rainfall and gusty winds in Kolkata have led to waterlogging and traffic jams in some areas.
• Business Impact: Street vendors and small businesses are facing losses due to sudden rain and bad weather.
• Health Risks: Heatwave conditions in Odisha are raising concerns about heatstroke and dehydration, especially among students and elderly people.

Managing both rain and heatwave conditions at the same time is challenging for state authorities. The government in Odisha has advised district collectors and emergency services to remain on high alert. Some of the key measures being taken include:

• Setting up cooling centers and shelters in areas facing heatwave conditions.
• Improving drainage systems to prevent waterlogging during heavy rains.
• Advising people to stay indoors during peak heat hours and to stay hydrated.

In Kolkata, the sudden weather changes have forced shopkeepers and street vendors to take extra precautions. Many have been using plastic sheets to protect their goods from rain. Office-goers and commuters are also struggling with sudden traffic delays due to waterlogging.

According to the IMD, the rainy weather in Kolkata and parts of Odisha is expected to continue until March 22. After that, the situation is likely to stabilize. However, heatwave conditions in Odisha are expected to persist until the end of March.

The weather department has urged people to stay updated with weather reports and follow safety instructions. The government has also advised people in heatwave-affected areas to avoid stepping out during the afternoon and to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

The weather conditions in Kolkata and Odisha over the next few days will be mixed, with rain and thunderstorms in some areas and high temperatures in others. The IMD's forecast of gusty winds and thunderstorms in Kolkata is linked to the anti-cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal and the trough from Odisha to Vidarbha.

In Odisha, while some districts are experiencing rain, others are facing heatwave-like conditions. The government is actively working to manage the situation and reduce its impact on the public. With weather conditions expected to stabilize after March 22, people are advised to stay updated and take necessary precautions.