Kolkata, 4 July (H.S.) -

Kolkata experienced its highest June rainfall in the past four years, with the city receiving a total of 241.5 mm of rain, according to data released by the Alipore Meteorological Department. Weather experts confirm that rainfall in June remained within normal levels, and similar conditions are expected to prevail through July.

The monsoon officially arrived in Kolkata and the southern districts of West Bengal on June 17, accompanied by twin low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal that led to widespread rain across multiple districts. The city recorded 19 rainy days during the month, helping maintain lower-than-usual temperatures. On Thursday, the city's maximum temperature stood at 31.2°C, 1.4°C below normal, while the minimum temperature was 27.2°C, 0.5°C above the seasonal average. Humidity levels remained high, with the maximum reaching 95%.

According to H.R. Biswas of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Kolkata and the broader South Bengal region are likely to experience normal rainfall throughout July as well. However, the northern districts of West Bengal may see a slight deficit, although significant weather changes are expected there starting Tuesday, July 8.

Between Friday and Sunday, heavy rainfall is forecast across several districts in South Bengal. These include North and South 24 Parganas, East and West Bardhaman, East and West Midnapore, Jhargram, Purulia, and Bankura. Skies are expected to remain partly cloudy, with intermittent light to moderate showers and occasional thunderstorms. From Wednesday onwards, rainfall activity is likely to decline across the region.

North Bengal is also bracing for scattered heavy showers beginning Tuesday, July 8. Districts such as Cooch Behar and Alipurduar are expected to be the most affected, with weather-related disruptions anticipated in daily life.

The city remained mostly dry over the past 24 hours, with muggy and uncomfortable conditions prevailing on Thursday. Friday is expected to bring a change, with overcast skies and sporadic light to moderate showers throughout the day. Despite the rainfall, the high humidity is likely to cause continued discomfort.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh