A sudden Kalbaisakhi storm has swept across West Bengal, bringing powerful winds, thunderstorms and a sharp 5°C drop in temperature. While the cooler weather offers relief, the stormy conditions pose risks with heavy rain and gusty winds expected to continue through the weekend. From Kolkata to North Bengal, here’s everything you need to know about this dramatic weather shift.

Details & Context

The Kalbaisakhi, a fierce pre-monsoon storm, is caused by a low-pressure system stretching from Madhya Pradesh to Assam, pulling moisture from the Bay of Bengal. This has led to high humidity (up to 100%) and intense weather across West Bengal. The storm brings winds of 50-70 km/h, lightning, and moderate to heavy rainfall, impacting daily life in urban and rural areas.

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Key weather updates

South Bengal: Districts like East Bardhaman, Hooghly and West Medinipur face heavy rain and storm alerts. Winds up to 60 km/h are expected in Kolkata, Howrah and South 24 Parganas.

North Bengal: Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri and Malda will see scattered thunderstorms and gusty winds. Rainfall will ease by Monday.

Kolkata: A 22 mm rainfall and 70 km/h winds dropped the night temperature to 20.9°C, 5.5°C below normal. Afternoon storms are likely today.

Forecast: Rain continues until Sunday, with partly cloudy skies on Monday. Clear skies and rising temperatures are expected from Tuesday.

Quotes

Meteorologist, Kolkata Weather Office: “The low-pressure system is driving moisture-heavy storms, with humidity reaching 100% in some areas.”

Kolkata Resident: “The cool morning felt amazing but the afternoon storms make commuting tough.!”

North Bengal Farmer: “These rains are good for crops but strong winds can damage our fields.”

Additional Information

The Kalbaisakhi storms are typical in eastern India during April and May known for their sudden onset and destructive potential. In Kolkata, the daytime temperature dropped to 34.3°C, 1.5°C below normal, offering temporary relief from the heat. However, humidity levels (52% in the morning, rising to 96-100% by afternoon) are causing discomfort.

Weather data

·      Rainfall: 22 mm in Kolkata’s Alipore over the last 24 hours.

·      Night Temperature: 20.9°C, down 5.5°C from normal.

·      Daytime Temperature: Slightly lower than yesterday but humidity may make it feel warmer.

·      Humidity: Expected to hit 100% by afternoon increasing the risk of heavy showers.

The storms are expected to subside by Monday, with temperatures rising from Wednesday, potentially leading to hotter and drier conditions.

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Impact Analysis

Positive Impacts

·      Temperature Relief: The 5°C drop offers respite from pre-summer heat.

·      Agriculture: Moderate rain benefits crops in North and South Bengal.

·      Water Supply: Rainfall replenishes water sources in rural areas.

Negative Impacts

·      Disruptions: Strong winds and rain may cause traffic delays and power outages.

·      Safety Risks: Lightning and fallen trees pose dangers especially in rural districts.

·      Crop Damage: High winds could harm plantations in North Bengal.

The Kalbaisakhi storm has transformed West Bengal’s weather, bringing cooler temperatures but also challenges with heavy rain and gusty winds. While the rains offer a break from the heat, residents must stay cautious of potential disruptions and safety risks. As the weather clears by next week, this stormy spell reminds us of nature’s power and the need for preparedness.

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