Kolkata, 05 January (H.S.) : Tourists visiting the hills have reason to cheer as snowfall is likely in Darjeeling later this week. According to the Alipore Meteorological Office, parts of Darjeeling district may receive snowfall accompanied by rain. Hill roads, hotels, and surrounding areas could be covered with a blanket of snow.

Meanwhile, the cold has intensified across Kolkata and other parts of south Bengal. Residents were seen shivering since Sunday morning, even as picnic outings marked the first Sunday of the year in and around the city.

The Met office said that after December 31, Kolkata’s minimum temperature had risen slightly over the past two to three days, but weather conditions changed sharply on Sunday. As per Alipore records, the city’s minimum temperature was recorded at 12.5 degrees Celsius early Monday. However, the perceived cold, often referred to as the “real feel,” was much stronger than the actual readings. As the day progressed, the chill intensified further.

Weather experts attributed the biting cold in Kolkata to persistent cloud cover. Clouds dominated the sky since morning, blocking sunlight and allowing cold northerly winds to continue blowing over the city, increasing the chill factor. Similar cold conditions are likely to persist over the next few days, with temperatures expected to drop by another two to three degrees.

A warning for dense fog has been issued for north Bengal districts throughout the week, with reduced visibility expected. Darjeeling may witness rain or snowfall at some locations, while Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, and Alipurduar are likely to receive light rain.

In south Bengal, no rainfall is forecast at present. The Meteorological Department has indicated that the region may be entering another strong cold spell, likely to bring severe winter conditions in the coming days.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh