West Bengal Rainfall Forecast May 2025: The India Meteorological Department forecasts heavy rainfall in parts of West Bengal starting May 28, 2025, signaling the imminent arrival of the monsoon season. Detailed weather forecast, district-wise alerts, and preparedness guidelines included.
Bengal Welcomes Pre-Monsoon Showers
With temperatures dipping slightly and skies turning grey, West Bengal is beginning to witness the onset of monsoon-related weather. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has officially forecasted heavy rainfall starting May 28, 2025, across several districts of the state. The rain, which began as scattered light showers earlier this week, is expected to intensify significantly as a low-pressure system builds over the Bay of Bengal.
IMD Alert: Weather Warnings and Monsoon Watch
According to the latest IMD bulletin, a yellow alert has been issued for lightning and thunderstorms across South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, and Howrah. The alert includes a warning for gusty winds reaching speeds between 30-40 km/h, particularly from the afternoon of May 28.
Meteorologists suggest that this weather pattern is part of the early arrival of the southwest monsoon, which typically hits Bengal in early June. However, this year, due to developing conditions in the Bay of Bengal, the monsoon currents may enter the Gangetic plains earlier than expected.
Monsoon Timeline: Early Indicators in 2025
Climatologists monitoring the southwest monsoon progress report that it has already advanced into parts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, northeast India, and the Bay of Bengal. As of May 26, monsoon winds have strengthened, supported by moisture-laden clouds drifting toward the West Bengal coastline.
The development of a cyclonic circulation near the Andaman Sea and its westward movement is creating favorable conditions for a low-pressure area, which will likely lead to widespread rainfall over Bengal by the end of May.
West Bengal Rainfall Forecast May 2025: District-wise Rainfall Forecast
Here is a breakdown of the district-wise rainfall expectations between May 28 and June 1:
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Kolkata: Intermittent showers, increasing to moderate-to-heavy rainfall on May 29 and 30. Waterlogging is possible in low-lying areas.
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Howrah & Hooghly: Thunderstorms with gusty winds; rainfall between 60–90 mm expected.
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East & West Midnapore: Heavy rain (above 100 mm), particularly in coastal regions.
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South & North 24 Parganas: High alert for lightning; localized flooding possible.
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Bankura, Purulia, Burdwan: Very heavy rain between May 30 and June 1; may impact agriculture.
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Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar: Moderate rainfall; early signs of monsoon uplift in hilly terrain.
Impact on Daily Life in Bengal
1. Urban Disruption in Kolkata
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation has activated its drainage management teams in anticipation of urban flooding. Temporary de-watering pumps have been stationed in areas like Behala, Ballygunge, Salt Lake, and Ultadanga, which are prone to waterlogging during intense spells.
2. Transport and Aviation
Airport officials at NSCBI Airport, Kolkata, are monitoring flight operations amid anticipated poor visibility and heavy rainfall. Local trains may also face temporary suspension or delays due to track flooding.
3. Education and Public Services
The West Bengal education department has indicated that schools may switch to online mode or declare rainy days if rainfall intensifies beyond safe commuting limits.
Agricultural Impact: Blessing or Burden?
West Bengal, being an agriculturally rich state, stands to gain from a timely and robust monsoon. Farmers in Birbhum, Murshidabad, Nadia, and East Burdwan are preparing for sowing of paddy and jute. However, excessive pre-monsoon rainfall may damage stored crops or delay field preparations if accompanied by flooding.
Agricultural officers have advised farmers to:
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Store seeds in waterproof containers
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Ensure drainage in fields to avoid root rot
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Avoid fertilizer application just before heavy rain events
Disaster Preparedness and Government Measures
1. State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA)
The SDMA has issued preparedness advisories to all district magistrates and municipal bodies. Emergency helplines have been activated across coastal districts, and civil defense volunteers are on standby.
2. Fisherman Alerts
IMD has warned fishermen not to venture into the sea from May 28 to May 31. The seas are expected to be rough, particularly near Digha, Bakkhali, and Sagar Island.
3. Power and Communication
The West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) has set up temporary units to handle power failures. Communication towers in rural Bengal are being fitted with backup systems to maintain connectivity.
Historical Comparison: How 2025 Rains Compare with Previous Years
In May 2023, Kolkata recorded 108 mm of rain before the official monsoon entry, while Cyclone Remal in 2024 led to devastating rains and winds exceeding 90 km/h. However, 2025’s pattern, while early and intense, is not currently associated with any major cyclone.
According to IMD’s regional office, this year’s pre-monsoon activity is above normal, which may help in replenishing groundwater but also increase the risk of lightning strikes and flooding in vulnerable areas.
Public Reactions and Social Media Buzz
As dark clouds gather over Kolkata, social media is flooded with images of the city’s skyline, umbrellas, and flooded lanes. Hashtags such as #BengalRains, #Monsoon2025, and #KolkataWeather are trending, with citizens expressing both relief and concern.
Common reactions include:
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“Finally, some respite from the heat. But please no more waterlogging!” – Tweet from Behala resident.
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“Hope the drainage system holds up this year. Fingers crossed.” – Facebook post from Salt Lake.
Expert Opinion: Is Climate Change Altering Bengal’s Rain Patterns?
Dr. Ranjita Dey, a climate scientist at Jadavpur University, notes that climate volatility is increasing:
“We’re seeing more abrupt shifts—either prolonged dry spells or sudden heavy rainfall. Bengal is becoming increasingly vulnerable to cloudbursts, which weren’t common a decade ago.”
She advocates for better urban planning, disaster readiness, and a shift toward climate-resilient crops to adapt to the new weather extremes.
Safety Guidelines for the Public
Authorities urge the public to follow these guidelines during the rainfall period:
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Avoid outdoor movement during thunderstorms.
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Stay away from open fields and isolated trees.
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Unplug electrical appliances during lightning alerts.
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Keep emergency numbers like 1070 (State Emergency) and 100 (Police) saved.
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Use raincoats and gumboots instead of umbrellas during high winds.
Tourist Precautions and Travel Updates
Tourist hotspots like Darjeeling, Digha, Mandarmani, and Sundarbans are expected to receive moderate to heavy rain. Tourists have been advised to:
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Check weather forecasts before planning day trips
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Avoid boat rides or sea swimming
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Book refundable travel and hotel accommodations
Government and NGO Collaboration
Several NGOs have stepped up by distributing rain gear, tarpaulin sheets, and basic medicines in slum areas. The Kolkata Police, in collaboration with civic volunteers, are clearing clogged drains, while Red Cross Bengal has stationed medical vans in cyclone shelters near the coast.
Conclusion: A Season of Opportunity and Caution
As West Bengal braces for the official arrival of the 2025 monsoon season, the next few days will test both the resilience of its infrastructure and the preparedness of its citizens. While timely rainfall can revive agriculture and cool the city, excessive downpours must be approached with vigilance and caution.
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