Kolkata's Scorching Heatwave Interrupted by Thunderstorms and Cloud Cover
The first intense heatwave of the season in Kolkata was abruptly halted on Sunday, as cloud cover and an afternoon thunderstorm provided much-needed respite from the sweltering conditions. The mercury dropped by a significant six notches, offering relief to residents who had endured soaring temperatures in recent days.
Temperature Plunge and Weather Patterns
While cloud cover shielded the city from the sun, accompanied by repeated drizzles throughout the day, the maximum temperature plummeted to 30.8°C. In contrast, the minimum temperature saw a marginal increase, rising to 27.7°C. This shift followed a warm spell that peaked on Saturday, with temperatures reaching 36.1°C, the highest recorded so far this season.
According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), this relief is expected to persist until April 9. The forecast includes more cloudy days and thunderstorms not only in Kolkata but across south Bengal. A low-pressure trough extending from Bengal to Telangana via Chhattisgarh triggered the clouds and thunderstorms, with a favourable wind pattern enhancing the conditions.
Expert Insights and Future Predictions
RMC weather scientist Sourish Bandopadhyay explained, "This was supplemented by a favourable wind pattern that will persist for the next four days. The winds are carrying in moisture from the sea, turning the conditions favourable for thunderstorms and rain across south Bengal." Deputy director-general of meteorology HR Biswas added that even as the trough persists, a new system may emerge in the region, helping to trigger fresh clouds and thunderstorms over the next four days.
Biswas further noted, "Scattered thunderstorms occurred across the districts of south Bengal on Sunday. Some parts of Kolkata received a thunderstorm, but it was not uniform across the city. Since conditions remain favourable, we expect more severe thunderstorms between Tuesday and Thursday that will affect a wider part of Kolkata. The rain, too, could be heavier."
Temperature Outlook and Weather Alerts
Temperatures are anticipated to remain below normal for most of the week, with both maximum and minimum readings staying low due to continued cloud cover and thunderstorm activity. Bandopadhyay remarked, "The weather should be pleasant over the next four days."
In response to the forecast, an orange alert has been issued for most districts in south and north Bengal for Wednesday and Thursday. This alert warns of extremely bad weather with potential disruptions, including road and rail closures and power supply interruptions. An RMC bulletin on Sunday indicated that the period could see sporadic rain, thunderstorms, and hailstorms, with some areas possibly receiving heavy rainfall.
Context and Regional Impact
The recent heatwave in Kolkata saw temperatures spiral to 36.1°C on Saturday, following a maximum of 36°C the day before. The presence of moisture in the region has been significant, creating an 'instability' that fosters conditions conducive to thunderstorms and rain. Additionally, a powerful western disturbance is expected to cause rainfall, along with hailstorms and snowfall, in some western and northern states of India.
This weather shift marks a significant change from the oppressive heat, offering Kolkatans a break and highlighting the dynamic climatic patterns affecting the region during this season.
