Shrayan Sen
The monsoon withdrawal process, though unofficially has reached its final phase in West Bengal, with the convergence zone — the area responsible for pre-withdrawal thunderstorms — now moving eastward. Districts such as East Midnapore, North and South 24 Parganas, Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, and Nadia are currently witnessing these thunderstorms. Meanwhile, the rest of the districts in the state have already dried up.
Friday’s Downpour Soaks Kolkata
On Friday, heavy rain lashed several parts of Kolkata and adjoining districts. The city recorded around 70 mm of rain within just one and a half hours, leading to widespread waterlogging in several neighbourhoods. Meteorologists note that such short, intense bursts of rainfall are common during the withdrawal phase of the monsoon, triggered by the clash between retreating moist air and the incoming dry northerlies.
More Thunderstorms Expected Before Dry Spell
Similar thunderstorms are expected on Saturday as well, particularly in and around Kolkata and the coastal districts. However, from Monday onward, the weather is expected to turn dry across South Bengal. The skies will clear, and sunny conditions will prevail for at least the next five days. Northerly winds will begin to dominate, bringing a noticeable dip in both day and night temperatures. The official declaration of monsoon withdrawal from the region is likely by early next week.
North Bengal Already in Post-Monsoon Phase
In contrast, North Bengal has already entered a fully dry and bright weather phase. The skies have remained mostly clear over the hills and plains for several days now, marking a complete but unofficial monsoon withdrawal. The official declaration of monsoon withdrawal from North Bengal is expected around 12th October. Daytime temperatures are hovering around 28–30°C, while night temperatures are dipping noticeably, giving the region a pleasant post-monsoon feel. Tourist hotspots such as Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Dooars are experiencing ideal autumn weather with crisp air and bright sunshine.
Possible Scattered Showers Around Kali Puja
Despite the upcoming dry spell, weather models suggest that light, scattered rain might return around Kali Puja in South Bengal districts. A depression is likely to form over the Bay of Bengal, moving towards the South Andhra Pradesh–North Tamil Nadu coast. Under its indirect influence, some moisture may once again drift towards Bengal, resulting in brief and scattered showers. However, these will be mild and harmless, posing no threat to festive activities.