kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Kolkata, May 7, 2026: The India Meteorological Department has forecast continued thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds across South Bengal through the weekend, with a noticeable rise in temperature expected from Monday, bringing back heat and humidity-related discomfort across the region.

The latest update from the Alipore Meteorological Office, several parts of South Bengal, including Kolkata, have already witnessed intermittent light showers since Thursday morning. This unstable weather condition is expected to persist for the next two to three days, with a higher intensity of rainfall and storm activity likely on Friday and Saturday.

Weather officials have attributed the current conditions to a cyclonic circulation over Uttar Pradesh, which is drawing significant moisture into West Bengal. This influx of water vapor is increasing the likelihood of thunderstorms and lightning across multiple districts.

On Friday, light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is expected across districts such as Purulia, Bankura, Birbhum, West and East Burdwan, and parts of Hooghly and Howrah. Wind speeds during these weather events may reach between 40 to 50 kmph. Other districts in South Bengal are also likely to experience scattered rain and thunder activity.

The intensity of the weather system is expected to peak on Saturday, when Kalbaisakhi-like conditions may develop in several western districts. Areas including Bankura, Purulia, Jhargram, West Midnapore, West Burdwan, and Birbhum may experience thunderstorms with strong winds reaching 50 to 60 kmph, along with lightning and rainfall. Kolkata and adjoining districts are also likely to see gusty winds of 40 to 50 kmph accompanied by thunderstorms.

On Sunday, isolated thunderstorm activity may continue across South Bengal, though the overall intensity is expected to gradually reduce. From Monday onwards, weather conditions are likely to improve with a decline in rainfall activity and a steady rise in temperatures. Meteorologists have warned that increasing heat and humidity may once again lead to discomfort for residents across the region.

North Bengal, thunderstorms are expected to continue until Saturday, though heavy rainfall has not been predicted. Weather conditions are likely to remain relatively stable with no significant fluctuation in maximum or minimum temperatures in the short term. However, a gradual increase in temperature is also expected in North Bengal from next week as rainfall activity subsides.

Kolkata, the minimum temperature has been recorded at 25°C, while the maximum temperature on the previous day stood at 33.7°C. Officials have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity, especially in open areas, due to the risk of lightning and strong winds over the next few days.

Authorities continue to monitor the evolving weather system closely as South Bengal prepares for a brief spell of volatile pre-monsoon conditions before a return to warmer weather early next week.