IMD issues orange alert for 6 Bengal districts; Heavy rain and winds gust up to 60 km/h

The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for six districts of West Bengal, forecasting heavy rainfall and strong winds over the next two days. The affected districts include North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, West Medinipur, Jhargram, Nadia, and Murshidabad. Wind speeds in these areas may reach up to 60 kilometres per hour.

The weather began to change on Wednesday night, with steady rainfall reported across multiple locations. On Thursday morning, overcast skies continued in Kolkata and surrounding areas. According to the forecast, thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds and heavy showers will persist across the state till Friday. The alert is aimed at preparing local administrations for possible weather-related disruptions.

The IMD has also issued rainfall estimates for North Bengal. Districts including Darjeeling, North Dinajpur, South Dinajpur, and Malda are expected to receive 7 to 11 centimetres of rainfall on Thursday. Wind speeds in these regions may range between 30 to 50 kilometres per hour. Authorities have been advised to monitor water levels and ensure readiness for localised flooding.

Kolkata recorded a significant drop in temperature due to the weather activity. The minimum temperature fell from 27.7°C on Wednesday to 22.4°C on Thursday. The maximum temperature for the day was projected to stay around 35°C. Rainfall is likely to continue intermittently in Kolkata and other districts of South Bengal.

According to the Alipore weather office, the current pattern of rain and thunderstorms is expected to continue across the state at least until Friday. In some isolated pockets, the weather activity may extend into Sunday or Monday. Forecasts include the possibility of lightning, brief squalls, and intense rainfall in short durations.