Severe Weather Alert: Kolkata and West Bengal Brace for Thunderstorms and Rain

Original: Will it rain in Kolkata today? Check IMD's forecast as it sounds orange alert for north, south Bengal districts

The Economic Times•Apr 6, 20263 min

In a Nutshell

Kolkata is set to experience significant weather changes with thunderstorms, rain, and gusty winds forecasted until April 9, 2026. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for several districts in West Bengal, warning of potential disruptions due to severe weather conditions.

Key Points

01Kolkata will experience thunderstorms and rain until April 9, 2026.
02An orange alert has been issued for north and south Bengal, indicating extremely bad weather.
03Gusty winds could reach up to 60 km/h in certain districts during peak weather.
04Heavy rainfall of 7–11 cm is expected in parts of north Bengal.
05Hailstorms may occur in isolated locations, particularly in Bankura and Birbhum.

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Full Summary

Kolkata, West Bengal, is anticipating a significant weather shift with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting thunderstorms and rain until April 9, 2026. The onset of seasonal Kalbaishakhi storms will bring gusty winds and lightning, with expected wind speeds of 30-50 km/h, and possibly reaching 60 km/h in some areas. An orange alert has been issued for most districts in north and south Bengal, warning of extremely bad weather that could disrupt transportation and power supply. Rainfall is expected to intensify mid-week, with heavy downpours of 7–11 cm projected in north Bengal districts like Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri. The IMD advises residents to remain cautious as thunderstorms may lead to hailstorms in isolated locations.

Key Figures

60 km/h

Maximum wind speed expected during thunderstorms

7–11 cm

Expected heavy rainfall in parts of north Bengal

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Why It Matters

Residents in Kolkata and surrounding districts should prepare for potential disruptions in transportation and power supply due to severe weather conditions. Homeowners should ensure their properties are secure against strong winds and possible hailstorms.

Who is affected

Residents of Kolkata and districts in north and south Bengal, including Howrah, Hooghly, and Darjeeling.

What to know

Stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions to safeguard property and ensure safety during storms.

FAQ

Thunderstorms are expected to persist until April 9, 2026.

The orange alert warns of extremely bad weather that may disrupt transportation and power supply.

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