New Delhi, March 20, 2025 — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather alert predicting thunderstorms, gusty winds, and moderate rainfall for Kolkata, parts of West Bengal, and Odisha till March 22, 2025. According to the IMD, a wind confluence zone and a trough extending from central Odisha to Vidarbha are contributing to the unstable weather patterns across the eastern and central regions of India.

Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds Predicted in Kolkata and Bengal

As per the latest forecast, Kolkata and nearby regions are likely to experience light to moderate showers, thunderstorms, and lightning between March 19 and 22. The wind speed is expected to range between 40-60 kmph during this period.

The IMD attributed this weather phenomenon to an anti-cyclonic circulation hovering over the Bay of Bengal, which is causing increased moisture inflow and cloud development.

Rainfall Expected Across Eastern India

• Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are expected to witness isolated to scattered light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning on March 20 and 21.
• Gangetic West Bengal, including Kolkata, is likely to experience light to moderate showers from March 19 to March 22.
• Parts of Odisha and Vidarbha may also experience rainfall and thunderstorm activity due to the presence of a trough system that is currently active at lower tropospheric levels.

Temperature Fluctuations Expected in East India

While maximum temperatures across East India are expected to remain stable over the next 48 hours, the minimum temperatures are likely to drop by 4 to 6 degrees Celsius over the next three days. This dip in temperature is expected due to the increased cloud cover and associated rainfall.

Delhi Weather Update: Slight Rise in Temperature with Moderate AQI

Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 32.8 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, which was 1.5 degrees above normal for this time of the year, according to the IMD. The minimum temperature settled at 14.2 degrees Celsius, which was 2.3 degrees below the season's average.

For Thursday, the IMD forecasted that Delhi’s maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to settle around 34 and 16 degrees Celsius, respectively.

Air Quality Remains Moderate in Delhi

Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 160, placing it in the 'moderate' category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Despite rising temperatures, the air quality has not deteriorated significantly, but authorities continue to advise residents to take necessary precautions, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions.

Weather Systems Affecting Eastern and Central India

The IMD highlighted multiple weather systems contributing to the current weather activity across eastern India:

• Anti-cyclonic Circulation: Present over the Bay of Bengal, it is pulling in moisture, leading to the formation of clouds and unstable weather conditions.
• Trough Extending from Odisha to Vidarbha: The presence of this system is enhancing thunderstorm activity across the eastern and central regions.
• Wind Confluence Zone: Active over eastern and adjoining central India, this system is aiding the formation of thunderstorms and gusty winds.

Precautions Advised by IMD

The IMD has urged residents in the affected regions, particularly in West Bengal and Odisha, to:

• Avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorms and gusty winds.
• Secure loose objects and avoid standing under trees or near electrical installations.
• Farmers are advised to take preventive measures to protect standing crops from strong winds and possible hailstorms.

Conclusion: Wet Spell Likely to Continue Till March 22

With thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds expected to persist over the next few days, residents of Kolkata, West Bengal, Odisha, and surrounding regions should remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Minimum temperatures are likely to dip by 4-6 degrees Celsius during this period, while no major change in maximum temperatures is anticipated. The IMD will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates as necessary

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