Summary
Kolkata recently experienced a sudden and dramatic shift in weather as a powerful storm moved through the city. Strong winds and rain caused the temperature to drop by more than five degrees Celsius in a very short time. This unexpected change brought a cool feeling back to the city, even though the winter season was supposed to be over. Weather experts warn that more thunderstorms and rain are likely to continue across West Bengal for the next several days.
Main Impact
The biggest impact of this weather event was the immediate relief from the rising heat. For the past few weeks, residents had been preparing for the hot summer months. However, the storm changed everything overnight. The air became much cooler, and the minimum temperature fell well below what is normal for this time of year. While the cool air is a welcome break for many, the high wind speeds also brought concerns about safety and potential damage to trees or weak structures across the region.
Key Details
What Happened
On Monday night and early Tuesday morning, a strong weather system known as a squall hit Kolkata. The wind was very loud and moved very fast, reaching speeds of up to 72 kilometers per hour. This wind was followed by moderate rainfall that covered many parts of the city. By the time people woke up on Tuesday, the warm spring air had been replaced by a chilly breeze that felt more like January than March. The sky remained cloudy, and the sun was hidden for much of the morning.
Important Numbers and Facts
The data from the weather office shows just how big the change was. On Monday, the lowest temperature recorded was 23.6 degrees Celsius. By Tuesday morning, that number had fallen to 18.4 degrees Celsius. This is a drop of 5.2 degrees in less than 24 hours. The wind speed of 72 kmph was one of the strongest recorded in the city so far this year. Experts at the Alipore weather office say that moisture coming from the Bay of Bengal is the main reason for these sudden storms.
Background and Context
In West Bengal, the month of March is usually a time when the weather transitions from the cold of winter to the heat of summer. During this time, it is common to see a mix of warm days and occasional storms. However, a drop of five degrees is quite unusual for mid-March. The Bay of Bengal, which is the large body of water south of the state, often sends moist air toward the land. When this moist air meets the dry, warm air over the land, it creates large clouds and powerful storms. These events are often called "Kalbaishakhi" or Nor'westers in this part of India, though they usually happen a bit later in the spring.
Public or Industry Reaction
Many people in Kolkata were surprised by the sudden cold. On social media, residents shared photos of the rain and talked about how they had to bring out their light sweaters again. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has been active in sending out warnings to keep people safe. They advised residents in affected districts to stay alert and follow local safety guides. For farmers in the surrounding districts, these storms are a mix of good and bad news. While the rain helps some crops, the very strong winds can knock down plants and cause financial loss.
What This Means Going Forward
The rainy weather is not expected to go away immediately. Forecasters say that the unsettled conditions will stay until at least Saturday. Between March 19 and March 21, the rain is expected to get heavier. Several districts, including North and South 24-Parganas, Nadia, and Murshidabad, are on alert for more storms with winds between 30 and 60 kilometers per hour. In North Bengal, a "yellow alert" has been issued for places like Darjeeling and Kalimpong. This means people should be aware that the weather could cause some problems, such as slippery roads or small landslides in the hills.
Final Take
This sudden weather shift serves as a reminder of how quickly nature can change. While the cool temperatures provide a short break from the upcoming summer heat, the strength of the winds shows the importance of staying prepared. Residents should keep an eye on weather updates for the rest of the week and stay indoors during heavy lightning or high winds to remain safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did the temperature drop in Kolkata?
The temperature dropped by more than five degrees Celsius, falling from 23.6°C on Monday to 18.4°C on Tuesday morning.
How long will the rainy weather last?
Weather experts predict that the rain and thunderstorms will continue across various parts of West Bengal until Saturday.
What was the highest wind speed recorded during the storm?
The squall brought winds that reached speeds of up to 72 kilometers per hour in Kolkata.