Kolkata Experiences Welcome Thundershowers, Temperature Drops Significantly
Residents of Kolkata received a much-needed respite from the intense heat on Thursday as spells of thundershower swept across the city, pushing down the mercury levels. While the rainfall was not uniformly distributed in terms of intensity and duration, most areas of the city experienced at least one or two showers, offering temporary relief from the scorching sun that had been prevailing.
Uneven Rainfall Distribution Across City Pockets
The thundershowers were particularly intense in the southern parts of Kolkata, whereas the northern and central pockets received comparatively lighter rainfall. According to meteorological data, Alipore recorded a rainfall amount of 4.9 mm. These nor'wester spells, accompanied by gusty winds, resulted in a significant drop in the maximum temperature, which settled at 32.4°C. This marked a notable decrease of 3.2 notches below the normal temperature, a stark contrast to Wednesday's high of 35.1°C.
Meteorologist HR Biswas, head of the Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata, explained the uneven distribution: "The rain was not uniform because the thundershowers were primarily caused by local thunder cell formation. Consequently, areas with more intense thunder cells received higher amounts of precipitation."
Forecast for More Nor'wester Activity and Subsequent Dry Spell
The Met office has indicated that another nor'wester spell is likely to occur between Thursday and Friday night. However, this period of rainfall is expected to be followed by a return to dry conditions starting from Saturday. Biswas added, "We can expect another nor'wester spell between Thursday and Friday night. The mercury will start climbing up gradually from Saturday again." This rain event comes after a gap of six days, providing a brief interlude in the ongoing heat.
Weather Systems Influencing South Bengal
According to a special bulletin issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), several weather systems are currently influencing the region. An east-west trough extends from southeast Rajasthan to Manipur, passing through cyclonic circulation over northeast Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gangetic West Bengal, Bangladesh, and southeast Assam. Additionally, there is an upper air cyclonic circulation over north Bangladesh and its neighboring areas.
The bulletin stated, "In view of favourable wind pattern and moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal, enhanced thunderstorm accompanied with strong gusty surface winds is likely in some districts of South Bengal during April 16-17."
Impact Beyond Kolkata and Future Outlook
Beyond Kolkata, several districts in south Bengal, including neighboring South and North 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, and Nadia, also experienced spells of thunderstorm activity during the day. Meteorological officials anticipate that thundershower spells at regular intervals will help prevent a sharp surge in temperatures, providing temporary relief from the heatwave conditions.
As the city braces for potential further rainfall, residents are advised to stay updated with real-time weather forecasts and take necessary precautions during thunderstorm activity. The interplay of local and regional weather systems continues to shape Kolkata's meteorological landscape, offering moments of respite amidst the prevailing heat.
