Bengal weather: Yellow alert in 4 districts, humidity to worsen till weekend

Kolkata: A sharp rise in temperature and humidity is set to grip West Bengal this week, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing yellow alerts for multiple districts, particularly in the western belt of South Bengal.

According to the Alipore Meteorological Department, maximum temperatures are likely to increase by 3–4°C across the state from Monday, driven by dry westerly winds.

The brief spell of relief brought by recent Kalbaishakhi thunderstorms is now fading, with weather conditions turning increasingly hot and uncomfortable.

The IMD has issued a yellow alert for heat conditions in West Midnapore, Jhargram, Purulia and Bankura for Tuesday.

These districts are expected to experience intense heat combined with high humidity, making outdoor conditions particularly stressful.

Officials warned that discomfort levels will rise significantly from midweek and persist at least until Saturday.

Kolkata and adjoining districts are also likely to see a steady temperature rise, accompanied by sultry conditions.

While the mercury may not reach official heatwave thresholds in all areas, the combination of heat and moisture in the air is expected to create heatwave-like discomfort.

Despite the overall dry trend, the Met Office has forecast isolated rainfall activity in parts of the state.

On the occasion of Poila Boishakh (Bengali New Year), light showers are likely in several districts including West Midnapore, Jhargram, Purulia, Bankura, East and West Bardhaman, Birbhum, and Murshidabad.

Between Tuesday and Thursday, western districts may witness light rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.

However, meteorologists say these scattered spells will offer only temporary relief and will not significantly bring down temperatures.

In North Bengal, districts such as Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong are expected to receive comparatively higher rainfall, particularly in the hill regions, due to localised weather systems.

The IMD has indicated that rainfall activity across the state will remain below normal over the next seven days, with dry conditions dominating most areas. The end of the Chaitra month is thus expected to remain marked by rising heat and humidity.

Health experts advise residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses as the state transitions into a hotter phase ahead of the summer season.