kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Kolkata, August 13: South Bengal has been witnessing widespread rainfall under the influence of a depression that has formed over the Bay of Bengal, with coastal districts receiving comparatively heavier showers. The weather system is expected to bring more rain to several parts of the region over the next few days, with the possibility of very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in some coastal areas. The India Meteorological Department has also issued warnings for strong winds and thunderstorms in several districts, while fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea for the time being.

Rain began across several districts of South Bengal from Wednesday night and continued into Thursday morning. Kolkata and adjoining areas also experienced intermittent showers, with the sky remaining overcast for most of the day. The persistent cloud cover and frequent spells of rain have brought a noticeable change in weather conditions across the region.

The Alipore Meteorological Office, the impact of the depression is likely to remain particularly strong over the coastal districts. Rain and thunderstorms are expected to continue in the coastal belt until Saturday, with North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore and West Midnapore likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall. In view of the possibility of intense showers, an orange warning has been issued for these districts.

South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore could experience extremely heavy rainfall in some places, raising concerns over temporary waterlogging and disruption to normal life. Low-lying areas may be particularly vulnerable if intense rainfall continues for several hours. Local authorities are expected to remain alert in areas prone to waterlogging and other weather-related problems.

Kolkata is also likely to remain under the influence of the weather system. The city may receive heavy spells of rain accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorms. Similar weather conditions are expected in Howrah, Hooghly and Bankura, where warnings have also been issued for heavy rainfall and lightning. Residents have been advised to exercise caution during thunderstorms and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rain.

The depression over the Bay of Bengal has strengthened the moisture flow towards southern parts of West Bengal, resulting in widespread cloud formation and rainfall. Coastal areas are expected to experience the strongest impact, while inland districts may also receive moderate to heavy showers at intervals.

The weather system has also prompted restrictions on fishing activity in the sea. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the Bay of Bengal until conditions improve, particularly because of the possibility of rough seas and strong winds. Those already at sea have been advised to return to safer locations.

Parts of North Bengal are also expected to receive rainfall, particularly the southern districts of the region. Although the intensity is expected to be lower than in the coastal districts of South Bengal, several areas may experience intermittent showers and thunderstorms.

The continuing rain is likely to bring some relief from the prevailing humidity, but prolonged heavy rainfall could create problems for transport, drainage and daily activities in several districts. Kolkata may also see temporary waterlogging in low-lying pockets if heavy showers persist.

Weather officials have urged people to remain cautious during thunderstorms, particularly in open areas, and to follow local weather advisories. With the depression continuing to influence the region, South Bengal is expected to remain wet and cloudy over the coming days, with coastal districts facing the greatest risk of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall.