Kolkata: South Bengal is bracing for a spell of intense thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds over the next few hours, with the Alipore Meteorological Department issuing a high-impact warning for several districts.

The latest bulletin indicates that weather conditions have turned highly favourable for Kalbaishakhi (Nor’wester) activity, a seasonal phenomenon known for sudden and severe storms across the region.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), widespread rain accompanied by thunder, lightning, and gusty winds is likely across districts such as Nadia, Murshidabad, and North 24 Parganas.

Kolkata, Howrah, and large parts of South 24 Parganas are also expected to experience intense weather activity, especially during the evening hours.

Wind speeds may reach up to 70–80 kmph in isolated areas, raising concerns over potential damage to infrastructure and disruptions in daily life.

The IMD has already flagged similar conditions earlier in the day, issuing alerts for thunderstorms and thundersqualls across South Bengal, with wind speeds ranging between 50–70 kmph and occasionally gusting higher.

Heavy rainfall between 7–11 cm has also been predicted in some pockets, particularly in districts like North 24 Parganas and Hooghly.

Recent weather patterns suggest that this spell is part of a larger system driven by moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal, combined with a trough and cyclonic circulation over eastern India.

These factors have triggered repeated thunderstorm activity across Kolkata and adjoining districts over the past few days, even disrupting flight operations due to strong winds and lightning.

Meteorologists warn that the next two to three hours are critical, with the possibility of intense lightning strikes, uprooting of trees, and damage to temporary structures.

Residents have been advised to stay indoors, avoid taking shelter under trees or electric poles, and remain cautious during the storm period.

While the storms are expected to bring temporary relief from the ongoing heat and humidity, authorities caution that the sudden and severe nature of these systems can pose risks to life and property.

A red alert has been issued for several affected districts, urging residents to remain vigilant and follow safety advisories until conditions improve.