ZODIACLOG
Kolkata, May 5, 2025 — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather alert for Kolkata and surrounding districts, warning residents of possible thunderstorms on Tuesday, May 6. According to the forecast, the city will see partly sunny skies in the morning, followed by isolated thunderstorms and strong winds in the afternoon. The alert has heightened concerns among residents as the region moves deeper into its pre-monsoon season.
Weather Forecast at a Glance
Date: Tuesday, May 6, 2025
High Temperature: 35°C (95°F)
Low Temperature: 26°C (78°F)
Condition: Partly sunny with a chance of isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon
Wind: Gusts up to 30–40 km/h expected during storms
Humidity: Over 70%, contributing to sultry conditions
The forecast reflects an intensifying weather system that has been building across eastern and central India. IMD data indicates the presence of a cyclonic circulation over eastern Bihar and adjoining West Bengal, which is triggering instability in the atmosphere. As a result, several districts across Bengal, including Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, and North 24 Parganas, are likely to experience sudden downpours with lightning and thunder.
Why This Weather Alert Matters
Though pre-monsoon thunderstorms, locally known as Kalbaishakhi or Nor’westers, are a seasonal phenomenon in Bengal, the IMD’s alert highlights potential safety concerns. Lightning strikes, falling trees, and brief periods of intense rain have caused damage and power outages in previous years. This season is no exception, and with high surface temperatures and moisture-laden winds, the risk of severe thunderstorms remains elevated.
Key Warnings from the IMD:
Avoid standing under trees during a thunderstorm.
Stay indoors during lightning activity.
Secure outdoor objects like flowerpots, signage, and temporary structures.
Check travel and flight schedules in case of delays or disruptions.
Impact on Daily Life
For commuters, the timing of the thunderstorms—likely between 2 PM and 6 PM—could be problematic. Office-goers and students may face difficulties returning home, especially with traffic disruptions and possible waterlogging in low-lying areas. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has assured that drainage pumps are on standby to prevent flooding, but officials also urge the public to avoid unnecessary travel during inclement weather.
Outdoor events, including school sports, weddings, and public gatherings, may need rescheduling or cancellation. Event organizers are advised to have contingency plans in place and to monitor real-time weather updates.
Public Advisory
Meteorologists emphasize that while the storm may not affect all neighborhoods equally, the unpredictable nature of these systems makes it essential to remain prepared.
Residents should:
Download the IMD’s MAUSAM app for real-time weather alerts.
Follow updates from the Regional Meteorological Centre Kolkata via Twitter and other social platforms.
Keep mobile devices charged in anticipation of power outages.
Prepare an emergency kit with a flashlight, water bottles, essential medicines, and a battery-powered radio.
Long-Term Weather Trends
This alert fits into a broader pattern of unpredictable and often extreme pre-monsoon activity across India. According to a recent IMD bulletin, states like Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and parts of the Northeast are also facing similar conditions, including heavy rainfall and lightning activity. Climate experts suggest that higher-than-usual sea surface temperatures in the Bay of Bengal may be enhancing moisture availability and increasing storm frequency in the region.
Kolkata, in particular, has seen a warmer-than-average April, and this heat buildup contributes to volatile atmospheric dynamics. The pre-monsoon season, which typically runs from March to early June, has become increasingly unpredictable in recent years, partly due to changing climate patterns.
Stay Safe and Informed with Zodiaclog
Zodiaclog urges all readers to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and take all necessary precautions. Your safety is our priority, and our team will continue to provide live coverage, alerts, and expert analysis as weather conditions evolve.
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