The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a stern warning for West Bengal, indicating no immediate relief from the intense cold wave conditions gripping the state. The severe chill is predicted to persist until at least December 9, with temperatures expected to drop even further across several districts.
Kolkata Records Chilly Milestone, Flight Disruptions Feared
The state capital, Kolkata, is at the forefront of this bitter spell. On Monday, the city recorded its coldest January day in 12 years, with the mercury plunging to a biting 10.2 degrees Celsius. The Alipore Regional Meteorological Centre forecasts that the maximum and minimum temperatures in Kolkata on Wednesday will hover around 19°C and 10°C, respectively.
Adding to the woes, dense fog and mist are likely to envelop the city, significantly reducing visibility. This has raised alarms for air travel, with IndiGo, India's largest carrier, warning of potential flight disruptions.
District-Wise Forecast: Orange Alert and Cold Day Conditions
The cold wave's impact varies across the state, with both North and South Bengal bearing the brunt.
North Bengal Weather Outlook
Dense fog is very likely to reduce visibility in one or two places across all districts of North Bengal on Wednesday. The IMD has also forecast cold day conditions in the districts of Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar. These harsh conditions are expected to last through the weekend.
South Bengal Weather Outlook
South Bengal is set to experience intense cold wave conditions, particularly in parts of Birbhum and East Burdwan districts. Cold day conditions are very likely to prevail over multiple districts including:
- Hooghly
- Birbhum
- Murshidabad
- Nadia
- East Burdwan
- West Burdwan
- North 24 Parganas
- South 24 Parganas
In response to the severity, the IMD has issued an orange warning for Birbhum and East Burdwan districts for both Wednesday and Thursday, urging residents to take necessary precautions.
No Respite in Sight, Public Advised to Stay Warm
With similar weather patterns forecast to continue until the weekend, authorities are advising the public, especially vulnerable groups, to stay indoors during the early morning and late evening hours. The visual of people huddling around bonfires in Kolkata has become a common sight as the state endures this extended period of severe cold, with all indicators pointing towards a prolonged chill.
