The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a significant weather update on Tuesday, indicating a noticeable dip in nighttime temperatures across West Bengal. Residents should prepare for cooler conditions as the mercury is set to fall substantially over the coming days.
IMD Bulletin Predicts Gradual Cooling Across State
According to the IMD bulletin, minimum temperatures are likely to decrease by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius throughout West Bengal during the next four days. The cooling trend will affect different regions of the state at varying intensities. Southern districts of Bengal can expect a more pronounced drop, with temperatures likely to fall gradually by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the northern parts of the state will see a slightly milder reduction of 2 to 3 degrees Celsius.
In a key forecast for the week ahead, the weather office stated that all districts are likely to experience predominantly dry weather conditions for the next seven days. This absence of rainfall is expected to accompany the cooling phase.
Morning Fog and Current Temperature Snapshot
The IMD bulletin also warned of reduced visibility in the mornings due to fog. Shallow to moderate fog is likely at one or two places in all districts, potentially bringing visibility down to between 200 metres and less than one kilometre during the early hours.
Providing a baseline, the IMD shared Tuesday's recorded minimum temperatures. Kolkata recorded a minimum of 20 degrees Celsius, which was notably over three notches above the normal average for this time of year. In the plains, Alipurduar was the coldest spot at 12 degrees Celsius, closely followed by Cooch Behar at 12.1 degrees Celsius.
The hill stations, as expected, registered lower readings. Darjeeling was the coldest recorded location in the state at 7 degrees Celsius. Nearby Kalimpong recorded a minimum temperature of 11.5 degrees Celsius.
Preparing for the Chill
The combined forecast of a temperature drop, dry weather, and morning fog has several implications. The dry spell may affect agricultural moisture levels, while the fog could impact early morning travel and commute, particularly on highways and in rural areas. Citizens, especially in the northern plains and hills, are advised to take necessary precautions against the cold. This includes wearing adequate warm clothing in the mornings and evenings and being cautious while driving in foggy conditions.
The IMD's update serves as an official alert for the region to transition into a cooler weather pattern, marking a shift from the recent conditions experienced in Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal.
