Beyond the Umbrellas: Kolkata Braces as Monsoon Fury Intensifies Under Yellow Alert 

Kolkata is facing intensified monsoon conditions under a yellow alert issued by the IMD, with persistent thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds predicted to continue for the next few days. Although rainfall measured just 3.8 mm recently, this marks the beginning of a prolonged and potent weather system. Urban flooding, transport disruption, power outages, and lightning hazards are expected, particularly in low-lying areas.

The activity is driven by a cyclonic circulation over northern Bangladesh and a strong monsoon trough reaching into the Bay of Bengal. Humid, unstable conditions are dominating the atmosphere, with further rainfall and storms likely. Authorities urge residents to stay indoors, avoid floodwaters and power lines, and follow official advisories. This isn’t just seasonal rain—it’s a sustained monsoon threat testing the city’s preparedness and resilience.

Beyond the Umbrellas: Kolkata Braces as Monsoon Fury Intensifies Under Yellow Alert 

Kolkata residents navigated waterlogged streets and sudden downpours on Monday as the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a significant yellow alert, signaling escalating monsoon activity over the city. The alert warns of persistent light to moderate thunderstorms, punctuated by lightning strikes and gusty winds, expected to dominate the next 24 hours and linger into the coming days. 

More Than Just Rain: The Weight of the Warning 

While the recorded rainfall between Sunday and Monday morning measured 3.8 mm (with a minimal 0.2 mm added later Monday morning), the IMD stresses this is merely a prelude. The forecast predicts frequent, intense spells of rain accompanied by intermittent gusty winds commencing Monday evening and stretching into early Tuesday morning. This isn’t just a passing shower; it’s a sustained weather event. 

The true concern lies in the broader impacts anticipated due to saturated conditions: 

• Urban Flooding: Low-lying areas across the city are highly vulnerable to rapid water accumulation. 

• Transport Chaos: Traffic disruptions are imminent, with key corridors likely to become impassable. 

• Power Instability: Localized outages are a real possibility as winds challenge infrastructure. 

• Heightened Risks: Lightning and falling branches pose significant dangers during peak storm activity. 

The Science Behind the Soaking 

This surge in activity isn’t random. The IMD bulletin pinpoints two key drivers: 

• A cyclonic circulation persisting over northern Bangladesh. 

• An active monsoon trough stretching from northwest India deep into the Bay of Bengal. 

This potent combination is channelling intense moisture-laden winds directly over Gangetic West Bengal, creating the perfect crucible for the convective storms now soaking Kolkata. The result is a city enveloped in a thick, sultry, and unstable atmosphere, evidenced by Monday’s high humidity (max 96%, min 72%) and near-normal temperatures (Max: 31.8°C, Min: 27.1°C). 

The Outlook: Persistent Unrest 

The short-term forecast leaves little room for doubt: light to moderate rain or thunderstorms are “very likely” at most places across Kolkata through Tuesday. Looking further ahead, the IMD’s South Bengal special bulletin indicates that Kolkata and neighbouring districts should brace for continued weather disturbances, including thunderstorms and lightning risks, for at least the next three days. The yellow alert underscores the sustained nature of this threat. 

Navigating the Deluge: Essential Precautions 

Authorities are urging Kolkatans to prioritize safety: 

• Seek Shelter: Stay indoors during active thunder and lightning. Avoid open fields, high ground, and isolated structures. 

• Avoid Hazards: Never shelter under trees or near electric poles/power lines. Lightning strikes are a major threat. 

• Steer Clear of Floodwaters: Do not attempt to walk or drive through waterlogged streets or underpasses. Depth and currents can be deceptive, and hidden hazards or downed power lines pose electrocution risks. 

• Stay Informed: Monitor official IMD updates and local news for real-time warnings and advisories. 

The Takeaway 

The current yellow alert for Kolkata signifies more than just heavy rain. It highlights a period of heightened meteorological activity bringing significant risks – from disruptive flooding and traffic gridlock to dangerous lightning and potential power cuts. While the monsoon brings respite from heat, this phase demands vigilance, preparedness, and strict adherence to safety protocols from all citizens. The city’s resilience will be tested as it weathers this active monsoon pulse.