Kolkata, 3 June (H.S.): After a brief spell of scattered rainfall, South Bengal is once again grappling with extreme heat and oppressive humidity. According to the Alipore Meteorological Department, the region is expected to endure harsh 'hot and humid' conditions for the next several days, with Tuesday likely to be the most uncomfortable due to peak temperature and moisture levels across Kolkata and other coastal districts.

Meteorologists have ruled out any immediate possibility of the monsoon advancing into South Bengal. The hot and dry westerly and northwesterly winds have halted the progress of the south-west monsoon. Traditionally, the monsoon enters Bengal by around June 10, but this year, the monsoon trough has stalled near Balurghat since May 29, and weather patterns remain unfavourable for further progress over the next week.

However, experts believe that if conditions slightly improve, the monsoon could reach South Bengal by June 12. Instances of delayed monsoon arrival in Bengal, even after its onset in Kerala, have been observed in previous years as well.

Currently, residents of South Bengal are facing a dual assault of high temperatures and extreme humidity. Over the next few days, temperatures are expected to rise by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius. On Tuesday, Kolkata recorded a maximum temperature of 37°C, while the minimum stood at 29.1°C. The relative humidity ranged between 50% and 91%, intensifying the discomfort.

Districts including Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, North and South 24 Parganas, East and West Midnapore, and Jhargram are especially expected to witness severe heat coupled with stifling humidity.

The Met Department has predicted gusty winds and light showers in Kolkata, Howrah, North and South 24 Parganas, East and West Midnapore, East Burdwan, Birbhum, Murshidabad, and Nadia districts on Thursday. However, the rain is likely to be brief and scattered, offering little respite from the prevailing heat.

Authorities have advised residents to take precautions, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. As monsoon arrival remains uncertain, South Bengal will continue to endure sweltering conditions for a few more days.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh