2 min readKolkataMay 22, 2026 06:03 PM IST
A massive influx of moisture from the Bay of Bengal, coupled with a shifting cyclonic circulation, has triggered a split-weather system across West Bengal. While North Bengal braces for heavy to very heavy downpours over the next few days, South Bengal faces a combination of scattered thunderstorms and oppressive heat.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for intense rainfall activity across North Bengal from Saturday to Monday. A cyclonic circulation extending up to 1.5 km above mean sea level – stretching from northwest Uttar Pradesh down to interior Odisha – is driving strong moisture into the region.
Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar are on high alert for heavy to very heavy rain (7-20 cm) for Saturday. Meanwhile, Darjeeling and Kalimpong will see heavy rainfall averaging 7-11 cm.
On Sunday, all districts of North Bengal can expect thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph.
For South Bengal, day temperatures are forecast to remain static for the next five days before dropping slightly by 2-3 degree Celsius. Temperatures will hover 2-4 degree Celsius above normal across the western belt.
Humidity levels will remain punishingly high, coastal districts will see 85-95 per cent maximum relative humidity, and interior districts will see 75-85 per cent maximum relative humidity. Despite the discomforting heat, a series of brief thunderstorm spells will likely impact the region over the coming days. Light to moderate rain is likely in East and West Burdwan, Birbhum, and Murshidabad, with severe squalls reaching speeds of 50-60 kmph. Purulia, Bankura, Hooghly, Nadia, and North 24 Parganas will see lighter rain but can expect 40-50 kmph wind gusts.
During the weekend, Purulia, Bankura, the two Burdwans, Birbhum, and West Midnapore will witness light to moderate thundershowers with wind speeds fluctuating between 30-50 kmph.
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On Thursday (May 28), a broader weather shift will bring light to moderate rain and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) across all districts of South Bengal.
Residents, especially vulnerable populations like infants and the elderly, have been advised to take precautions against both severe lightning strikes and heat dehydration.
