Kolkata, some districts of South Bengal are likely to experience heatwave conditions until April 25. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) provided this information on Wednesday.
The weather department issued a warning stating that, however, parts of North Bengal may see thunderstorms with rain during this week. The IMD said in its forecast, ‘Due to dry westerly and northwesterly winds at lower levels and seasonal solar heating, some districts of South Bengal are likely to experience heatwave or hot and humid conditions until April 25.’
The weather department said that daytime temperatures in western parts of South Bengal are likely to be three to five degrees Celsius above normal, while in eastern and coastal areas, they may be two to three degrees higher. The department reported that uncomfortable and humid weather may persist in South Bengal for the rest of the week. During this period, relative humidity is expected to be between 80 and 90 percent in coastal districts and between 75 and 80 percent in inland areas.
Mercury reaches 43.8°C in Panagarh, crosses 40°C in several districts
The IMD said that sub-Himalayan districts like Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri are likely to experience thunderstorms with rain and strong winds until April 28. According to the IMD, the maximum daytime temperature recorded in Panagarh, West Bardhaman district, was 43.8 degrees Celsius, which is seven degrees above normal. Meanwhile, daytime temperatures were significantly high in Bankura (43.2), Asansol (42.5), and Purulia (42.3).
According to the weather department, the daytime temperature in Kolkata was recorded at 35.6 degrees Celsius. The department has predicted partly cloudy skies with thunderstorms and rain by evening. Heatwave conditions refer to a period of unusually high temperatures (typically 40 degrees Celsius or more), lasting at least two days and significantly above normal. If such weather conditions persist for a few days, it is officially declared a heatwave.
Kolkata
Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is a major cultural and commercial hub in eastern India, founded in 1690 by the British East India Company. It served as the capital of British India until 1911 and was a center for the Indian independence movement, as well as a cradle of the Bengali Renaissance. Today, the city is renowned for its colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and rich literary and intellectual heritage.
Panagarh
Panagarh is a town in the Bardhaman district of West Bengal, India, with a history rooted in its strategic military significance. It has long served as a key cantonment area, and its importance grew during the British colonial period as a major army base. Today, it is home to an Indian Air Force station and remains a vital hub for the country’s defense operations.
Darjeeling
Darjeeling is a hill station in West Bengal, India, renowned for its tea plantations and panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Mount Kanchenjunga. Originally a part of the Kingdom of Sikkim, it was developed as a sanatorium and summer retreat by the British East India Company in the early 19th century. The region’s history includes the establishment of the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in the 1880s, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kalimpong
Kalimpong is a hill station in the Indian state of West Bengal, known for its scenic beauty and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Historically, it served as a key trading post between Tibet and India during the 19th century, and was later developed as a summer retreat by British colonial officials. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, famous for its monasteries, orchid nurseries, and vibrant local markets.
Jalpaiguri
Jalpaiguri is a city in the Indian state of West Bengal, located in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas. Historically, it served as the headquarters of the Jalpaiguri district during British colonial rule and was a key center for the tea and timber industries. Today, it is known for its scenic beauty, diverse culture, and as a gateway to the Dooars region and nearby wildlife sanctuaries.
West Bardhaman
West Bardhaman is a district in the Indian state of West Bengal, known for its rich industrial and agricultural heritage. Historically, it was part of the larger Bardhaman district, which was once a significant princely state under the Mughal Empire and later the British Raj. The region is famous for its coal mines, rice cultivation, and cultural landmarks like the 108 Shiva temple complex at Nababhat.
Bankura
Bankura is a district and city in the Indian state of West Bengal, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It was once part of the ancient Mallabhum kingdom and is famous for the Bishnupur terracotta temples, built by the Malla kings, as well as the traditional Bankura horse, a distinctive terracotta craft symbolizing the region’s artistry. The area also played a role in the history of the Bhumij and other tribal communities, blending Hindu and indigenous cultural elements.
Asansol
Asansol is a major industrial city in the Indian state of West Bengal, historically known for its rich coal mining and railway heritage. Its development was heavily shaped by the British colonial era, when the Eastern Railway workshop and nearby coal fields established it as a key hub for industry and transportation. Today, while still an important economic center, the city also offers cultural attractions like the ancient Jain temples at Pakbirra and the scenic Damodar River.
Purulia
Purulia is a district in the Indian state of West Bengal, known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes. Historically, it was part of the ancient kingdom of Jharkhand and later came under British colonial rule, playing a role in the 1855 Santhal Rebellion. The region is famous for its traditional Chhau dance, a UNESCO-recognized performing art, and its vibrant local festivals.
