IMD warns of severe storms, hail, and heavy rain across Bengal; IPL opener at risk

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for severe thunderstorms, hailstorms, and heavy rainfall across West Bengal from March 20 to 22. South Bengal will experience intense weather conditions from Thursday to Sunday, while North Bengal will see thunderstorms from Friday onward. Several districts are likely to witness strong winds, lightning, and moderate to heavy rainfall.

According to the IMD, thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph will affect parts of Birbhum, Purulia, and Paschim Bardhaman. On Thursday and Friday, Jhargram, Bankura, Paschim Medinipur, and Purba Medinipur may witness hailstorms with wind speeds reaching 50-60 kmph. East Burdwan and Howrah are likely to experience thunderstorms and rainfall, while Kolkata and other South Bengal districts could see wind speeds of 40-50 kmph with moderate rain.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea until Friday due to rough conditions caused by strong winds. The IMD attributes the unstable weather to strong moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal at lower atmospheric levels, combined with favorable wind patterns. These conditions have triggered the Kalbaishakhi, a seasonal pre-monsoon thunderstorm common in eastern India.

The impact will extend into North Bengal, where all districts are expected to receive light to moderate rain with thunderstorms on Friday and Saturday. Malda, Uttar Dinajpur, and Dakshin Dinajpur could experience gusty winds of 30-40 kmph, with the possibility of stronger speeds in localized areas. The weather department has urged residents to remain cautious due to the likelihood of heavy lightning and sudden strong winds.

In Kolkata, the maximum temperature on Wednesday was recorded at 33.9°C, while the minimum was 24.2°C, with humidity levels reaching 91 percent. Thursday’s forecast predicts partly cloudy skies, with thunderstorms and showers expected in the afternoon or evening. The maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to be around 34°C and 26°C, respectively. With rain predicted throughout the weekend, the weather conditions may affect the IPL’s opening match scheduled in Kolkata.