kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Kolkata, March 26: The mercury is steadily climbing across Kolkata and several districts of South Bengal, with residents already experiencing pronounced early summer heat. After days of increasing discomfort, weather officials have indicated a likely change in conditions, forecasting thunderstorms and rainfall over the weekend, while heavy showers are expected in parts of North Bengal early next week.

Thursday morning, Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 25.8 degrees Celsius, which is 1.7 degrees above normal for this time of the year. The above-average temperature has contributed to humid and uncomfortable conditions, especially during late morning and afternoon hours. The rising heat has been felt not only in the city but across multiple districts in South Bengal, where temperatures have been trending upward over the past few days.

The latest weather outlook, the current spell of warm conditions may give way to rain-bearing systems starting Monday, bringing relief to Kolkata and other districts of South Bengal. Meteorologists have indicated that thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds are likely to affect several areas. Districts such as Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, Purulia, and Bankura have been placed under a wind alert, with gusts expected to reach speeds of 50 to 60 kilometers per hour during storm activity.

Kolkata, too, may witness thunderstorms with wind speeds ranging between 40 and 50 kilometers per hour. The anticipated rainfall and gusty winds are expected to moderate the prevailing heat to some extent, offering temporary respite from the rising temperatures. However, officials have also cautioned that localized disruptions such as tree fall, minor structural damage, or traffic interruptions cannot be ruled out during intense thunderstorm activity.

North Bengal, weather conditions are expected to turn more intense from Monday onward, with forecasts warning of heavy rainfall in several districts. The combination of moisture incursion and atmospheric instability is likely to trigger significant precipitation in the northern parts of the state. Authorities are keeping a close watch on the developing system to assess any potential impact on low-lying or vulnerable areas.

The fluctuating weather pattern highlights the transitional phase between spring and peak summer, when sudden thunderstorms often follow spells of rising heat. For now, residents of Kolkata and surrounding districts are bracing for continued warmth over the next few days before the expected showers bring some much-needed relief.

Weather officials have advised citizens to stay hydrated during the heat spell and remain cautious during thunderstorms, particularly in areas under wind alerts.