Kolkata: Ahead of the forecasted thunderstorm, the mercury and humidity levels in Kolkata began to drop from Wednesday. While the city awaits its share of rain, areas like Lake Town and Salt Lake experienced a brief spell in the evening. Met officials stated that although some parts of the city may receive light rain through Wednesday night, the significant thunderstorm is expected on Thursday.
Thunderstorm Forecast for Thursday
According to meteorologist HR Biswas, head of IMD's Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata, there is an 80% probability of a thunderstorm hitting Kolkata on Thursday. During this event, wind speeds could reach 50 to 60 kmph, and temperatures will further decline.
Temperature and Humidity Trends
Alipore recorded a maximum temperature of 34.1°C, one notch below normal, marking the lowest daytime temperature in the past two weeks. Despite this, the real-feel temperature soared to 45°C during the afternoon due to high humidity. The maximum relative humidity, which was above 90% three days ago, has now stabilized at 86% for three consecutive days.
The minimum temperature, which peaked at 30°C on Monday, dropped to 28.2°C, one notch above normal. Despite the recent hot and humid conditions, Met officials noted that this May has been one of the most tolerable in recent years. The highest maximum temperature recorded this month was 36.6°C on May 14, the lowest for May in at least 15 years.
Comparison with Previous Years
In contrast, May 2025 saw temperatures near 40°C, and in May 2024, Kolkata experienced heatwave-like conditions with temperatures exceeding 40°C, including 42°C at the start of the month. While thundershowers typically provide relief from heat, Kolkata has not seen significant rain in the past week. The city recorded rain on seven days in the first nine days of May but only two rainy days in the subsequent 18 days.
Weather Systems and Relief
According to an IMD bulletin, an upper air cyclonic circulation, three trough lines, favorable wind patterns, and moisture from the Bay of Bengal are contributing to the expected rain. Biswas stated that the Thursday thunderstorm will be widespread, with wind speeds possibly reaching 80 kmph in some districts. Intense thundershowers began lashing districts like Bankura, Purulia, and Jhargram from Wednesday.
