Kolkata, 16 April (H.S.): Weather conditions in Kolkata took a sudden turn on Thursday as the Alipore Meteorological Department issued an alert for thunderstorms accompanied by rain over the next one to two hours. An orange alert was sounded at 8:36 AM, warning of light to moderate rainfall along with gusty winds reaching speeds of 30 to 40 kmph.

Dark clouds have engulfed the city skyline since morning, with light showers already reported in several areas. According to the weather office, the development is due to locally formed thunderclouds, creating unstable atmospheric conditions. Residents have been advised to remain cautious and stay in safe locations during adverse weather.

The department further indicated that the sky will remain partly cloudy throughout the day, with the likelihood of thunderstorms and rain intensifying during the afternoon and evening hours. Similar weather patterns are expected across several districts of South Bengal.

Districts including North 24 Parganas, Bankura, Purba Bardhaman, Paschim Bardhaman, Birbhum and Nadia may experience stronger winds ranging between 50 and 60 kmph. In other districts, wind speeds are likely to hover between 30 and 40 kmph. Light to moderate rainfall has also been forecast for districts in North Bengal.

In terms of temperature, the maximum in Kolkata is expected to be around 35 degrees Celsius, close to normal for this time of the year. The minimum temperature may settle at approximately 27.5 degrees Celsius, which is about 1.4 degrees above normal. Relative humidity could reach as high as 94 percent, adding to the discomfort levels.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh