Kolkata received heavy rainfall late on Thursday as torrential showers pummeled the city and its vicinity and left roads flooded and impeded with water, causing congestion and inconvenience for commuters. This set in motion another active spell of monsoon in West Bengal and weather officials have issued thunderstorm and heavy rain warnings.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast severe thunderstorms with lightning, heavy rainfall, and strong winds reaching 50-60 kmph at times across Kolkata and other districts of South Bengal. The weather department said unstable conditions are likely to persist in the next few days due to strong moisture intrusion from the Bay of Bengal.
Roads Waterlogged, Traffic Movement Hit
The constant rain quickly submerged many roads in Kolkata and its vicinity and traffic was slow in the city during peak hours. Waterlogging happened in low-lying areas and caused traffic congestion and took thousands of commuters’ time in the city.
Motorists had to make their way through flooded areas, and pedestrians had to pass flooded streets and walk through waterlogged roads. Transport services were also disrupted when people found it difficult for the traffic to flow through the affected areas.
The heavy rain once again highlighted the challenges faced by Kolkata during heavy monsoon periods, especially in areas vulnerable to flooding and poor drainage.
Rescue Operations Affected in Taratala
The adverse weather also affected rescue operations at a collapsed warehouse in Kolkata’s Taratala area.
Rescue workers reported difficulties in heavy rain, and slippery conditions and reduced visibility hampered rescue work at the accident site.
IMD Warns of More Rain and Thunderstorms
According to the IMD, favorable wind patterns and abundant moisture from the Bay of Bengal are creating ideal conditions for thunderstorm development across South Bengal.
Districts that are most likely to be impacted include:
- Kolkata
- Howrah
- Hooghly
- North 24 Parganas
- South 24 Parganas
The weather department recommended residents to be on high alert, especially during the afternoon and evening hours when thunderstorm activity is expected to increase.
Lightning strikes, strong winds, and localized heavy rainfall could cause temporary disruptions, including tree falls, power outages, and traffic delays.
Heavy Rainfall Likely Over the Coming Days
Monsoon activity should continue to be active over West Bengal over the next few days, weather officials have said. A number of districts in South Bengal and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal are expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall, with some locations potentially experiencing very heavy showers.
The Bay of Bengal is still pumping moisture into the region, strengthening the rain-bearing system and making it more likely to have frequent thunderstorms.
The government warned citizens to avoid unnecessary travel in weather-prone areas, stay away from waterlogged areas, and follow official weather updates.
Monsoon Strengthens Across West Bengal
In the longer run, the latest spell of rain is part of a broader monsoon surge affecting large parts of West Bengal. The rain has brought relief from humid conditions but also the risk of urban flooding, road accidents, and local damage from strong winds and lightning strikes.
The IMD has said that with the latest forecast of continued rainfall activity, Kolkata and neighboring districts will stay under close watch as monsoon activity increases in the state.
Residents should be cautious and prepared for more torrential rain and thunderstorms in the days to come.
