Kolkata Endures Scorching 36°C, Hottest Day of 2024 Amid High Humidity
The city of Kolkata experienced its hottest day of the year on Friday, with the maximum temperature soaring to 36°C. This reading was a significant 1.4 degrees above the normal seasonal average, creating intense discomfort for residents. The situation was exacerbated by exceptionally high humidity levels, which made the heat feel particularly oppressive and stifling throughout the day.
Neighboring Areas Record Even Higher Temperatures
While Kolkata sweltered, surrounding regions faced even more extreme conditions. In Howrah, the mercury climbed to a blistering 39°C. Other localities also reported elevated temperatures, with Dum Dum recording a high of 38.4°C and Salt Lake reaching 37.9°C. These figures highlight the widespread heatwave affecting the broader Kolkata metropolitan area.
Meteorological Forecast Predicts Gradual Relief from Sunday
According to the Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata, a change is on the horizon. Meteorologist Sourish Bandyopadhyay stated that temperatures are expected to begin easing from Sunday, thanks to anticipated thunderstorm activities. "We can expect the temperature to start going down from Sunday due to thunderstorm activities. In Kolkata, we expect light to moderate rain accompanied by gusty wind, thunder and lightning," he explained.
However, before any respite arrives, the heat is likely to intensify further on Saturday. The forecast indicates that the mercury may climb even higher, making for another challenging day before the cooling effects of the predicted weather systems take hold.
Western Disturbance to Influence Weather Patterns
The expected thunderstorms are linked to a powerful western disturbance affecting western and northern states, which may bring hailstorms and snowfall to those regions. This system is projected to influence wind patterns or lead to the formation of a trough, thereby enhancing rain possibilities in Kolkata and the rest of south Bengal.
Bandyopadhyay added, "The presence of moisture is significant while the heating is set to cause instability," indicating the atmospheric conditions conducive to storm development.
Rain Expected on Multiple Days Next Week
Meteorological officials have forecast that Kolkata is likely to receive rainfall on at least two days between Sunday and Wednesday. Initially, the showers are expected to be light to moderate, accompanied by gusty winds. However, sources within the meteorological department cautioned that the intensity could increase depending on the evolution of developing weather systems.
"There is a possibility of the intensity picking up, but that will be clearer only after the formation of a trough or an anti-cyclonic circulation," a source noted, suggesting that more detailed predictions will emerge as the weather patterns solidify.
Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest weather advisories and prepare for potential disruptions due to the forecasted thunderstorms and associated weather phenomena.
