Kolkata, 19 March (H.S.): The weather in West Bengal has turned pleasant with the onset of the Hindu New Year, but the possibility of fresh rainfall continues across the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) at Alipore on Thursday forecast an increase in rainfall activity over south Bengal towards the end of the week, particularly on Friday and Saturday.

According to the Met office, most parts of the state are likely to witness light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms over the next 24 hours.

Rainfall activity likely to intensify

The IMD said rainfall activity may intensify across the state from Friday, with the possibility of thunderstorms and gusty winds on Friday and Saturday. Hailstorms are also likely at isolated places. Weather conditions are expected to improve from Sunday, with a gradual reduction in rainfall.

No major change in temperature is expected in south Bengal over the next 24 hours.

South Bengal districts likely to receive rain

Districts including Howrah, Hooghly, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Jhargram, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Purulia and Nadia are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall. Kolkata and adjoining areas may also experience light showers under generally cloudy skies.

Rainfall intensity is expected to increase across most south Bengal districts on Friday and Saturday.

North Bengal also likely to be affected

Rainfall has also been forecast across all north Bengal districts. Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, North Dinajpur, South Dinajpur and Malda districts may witness rain and thunderstorms till Saturday.

The Met office has also indicated that adverse weather conditions may intensify in north Bengal from Friday onward.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh