KOLKATA, MAY 26, 2026 – The southern districts of West Bengal, including Kolkata, are bracing for significant rainfall, with forecasts predicting thunderstorms and downpours starting Wednesday, May 27, 2026. This comes after a period of unseasonably high temperatures, with night temperatures in several areas, notably Kolkata, lingering above normal. Residents in the southern regions are expected to find some relief from the prevailing sweltering heat.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicates a cyclonic circulation forming over the northern Bay of Bengal, expected to intensify into a low-pressure area on Tuesday and potentially a severe low-pressure area by Friday, with its trajectory pointing towards the Odisha coast.
Expected Rainfall Intensity
Several districts are anticipated to experience varying degrees of rainfall:
Heavy to Very Heavy Rainfall: Expected over South 24 Parganas, Purba Medinipur, and Howrah.
Heavy Rainfall: Forecasted for Kolkata, North 24 Parganas, Hooghly, Nadia, Purba Bardhaman, and Bankura.
Light to Moderate Rainfall with Thunderstorms: Also anticipated in these southern districts, and similarly in the northern districts of West Bengal, with an expected increase from Thursday.
Heatwave Conditions to Ease
The intense heat that has gripped the region is predicted to recede following the onset of the rain. Maximum temperatures are expected to drop, offering a respite to residents. This shift comes as a welcome change for areas like Purulia and Paschim Bardhaman, where day temperatures have recently surpassed 41 degrees Celsius.
Read More: UK Bank Holiday Weekend Heatwave: Record Temperatures Expected
Background of Meteorological Activity
The meteorological setup involves a developing low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal. This system is identified as the primary driver for the anticipated wet weather. The IMD's operational framework, including the 'Mausam' portal and regional meteorological centres, tracks such phenomena, providing forecasts for various durations and specific geographical zones. The IMD also issues advisories, such as the recent warning to fishermen against venturing into the sea along and off the West Bengal coasts due to anticipated rough sea conditions.
