Thunderstorms accompanied by rainfall led to a sharp dip in temperatures across Kolkata on Thursday, with the minimum temperature falling by nearly 7 degrees Celsius overnight. According to official weather data, the city recorded a minimum temperature of 20.4°C in the morning, compared to 27.7°C on the previous day. The sudden drop brought much-needed relief from the intense pre-monsoon heat that had been affecting the region.

The cooling effect was triggered after heavy rainfall on Wednesday night, when Kolkata received around 54 mm of rain along with gusty winds during the second and final phase of voting. The rainfall not only disrupted normal weather conditions but also significantly eased the sweltering humidity levels across the city and adjoining areas. Residents experienced noticeably cooler and more comfortable conditions by Thursday morning.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued unstable weather conditions for Kolkata and several districts in South Bengal over the next few days. Officials said thunderstorms accompanied by light to moderate rainfall are likely to persist, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. The maximum temperature in the city is expected to hover around 32°C despite cloud cover.

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Meteorologists explained that the weather activity is being influenced by an east-west trough extending from north Haryana to Manipur, passing through Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Bangladesh, and Assam. This system is facilitating the movement of moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal into eastern India. The resulting atmospheric conditions are creating a strong possibility of recurring thunderstorms and rainfall across the region.

The IMD has issued thunderstorm warnings for several South Bengal districts, including East Midnapore, Hooghly, Howrah, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, and Nadia. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea until May 3 due to rough weather conditions. Authorities have also cautioned that scattered hailstorms and thunderstorms may occur in parts of the state during this period.

In North Bengal, the weather department has predicted heavier rainfall activity over the next four days, particularly in hilly districts such as Darjeeling and Kalimpong. Continuous thunderstorms are expected in these regions, while other parts of the state may also witness intermittent showers. Officials have indicated that the current wet spell is likely to continue until early next week before weather conditions gradually stabilize.

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