Kolkata, 26 April (H.S.): The Alipore Meteorological Department has forecast Kalbaisakhi storms across south Bengal, offering likely relief from the prevailing heatwave conditions. Rain is expected in all southern districts, including Kolkata, while a warning for heavy rainfall has been issued for north Bengal.

According to the weather office, a cyclonic circulation has formed over east Bihar at an altitude of around 0.9 km above sea level. Under its influence, moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal are entering the landmass, leading to thunderstorms and rain in south Bengal. However, humid conditions may persist in some areas.

In Kolkata, rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is expected from Sunday, along with gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph. The forecast is likely to continue till next Saturday across several districts of south Bengal. An orange alert has been issued for Sunday and Monday in eight districts—North 24 Parganas, Murshidabad, Nadia, Paschim Medinipur, Bankura, Purba Bardhaman, Paschim Bardhaman and Birbhum—where winds may gust up to 50–60 kmph along with rain and lightning.

Sea conditions remain rough due to strong winds blowing at 40–50 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 60 kmph at times. The sea along the coasts of West Bengal and adjoining north Odisha is expected to remain turbulent, and fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea till Wednesday.

In north Bengal, a warning of heavy rainfall has been issued for Sunday and Monday in districts including Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar, along with gusty winds of 40–50 kmph. The weather pattern is expected to continue till next Saturday.

The minimum temperature in Kolkata on Sunday morning was recorded at 27.4 degrees Celsius, 1.2 degrees above normal, while Saturday’s maximum was 35.6 degrees Celsius, 0.3 degrees below normal. The Met office said there will be no significant change in temperature over the next two days, but it may drop by 3–4 degrees over the following five days.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey