Kolkata Weather Update: Kolkata finds itself in the grip of another extended monsoon phase, as the weather department has forecast continuous spells of rainfall accompanied by high levels of humidity for the entire week. The city, which has already experienced several days of intermittent showers, is now bracing for a stretch of wet weather that will impact both daily life and civic services. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the combination of a northward-shifted monsoon trough and the inflow of moisture from the Bay of Bengal is responsible for this prolonged wet spell. Warnings of thunderstorms with lightning in certain pockets of South Bengal have further raised concerns, particularly for rural populations and outdoor workers.
In many neighborhoods, residents are already struggling with rising humidity levels that have made indoor conditions uncomfortable. Even when it is not raining, the sticky atmosphere lingers, giving no real respite. Weather scientists note that these conditions are quite typical in August, yet the persistence of rainfall combined with the high moisture index adds to the discomfort. For citizens, the forecast means another week of adjusting schedules, planning ahead for travel, and taking preventive measures against seasonal health hazards.
Kolkata Weather Update: Daily Life Disruptions Across Kolkata
The rainfall has brought the familiar urban challenges back to the forefront. Traffic congestion has worsened in major parts of the city, especially during peak office hours. With waterlogging reported in low-lying areas like Behala, Tollygunge, and Ultadanga, motorists and pedestrians are forced to wade through ankle-deep water. Public buses and auto-rickshaws, often considered the lifeline of city transport, are struggling to maintain schedules as roads remain clogged.
For shopkeepers and small business owners in central and south Kolkata, reduced customer footfall has already begun to affect daily earnings. Street vendors in Gariahat, College Street, and Shyambazar note that business has dipped significantly, as people avoid venturing out in heavy showers. In residential complexes, maintenance staff are busy clearing clogged drains and ensuring pumps remain functional to prevent basements from flooding. Daily wagers, who depend on outdoor labor, are among the hardest hit, losing valuable work hours with every downpour.
Why the Rain Persists Over Bengal
Meteorologists have explained the science behind the sustained rainfall. The monsoon trough—a large area of low pressure that governs rain patterns—has shifted northward and currently runs across South Bengal, feeding moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal into the region. In addition, the IMD has highlighted the possible formation of a cyclonic circulation over coastal Bengal and Odisha, which could intensify rainfall in the coming days.
Such weather systems are not unusual for this time of the year, but their prolonged impact is concerning. In the past, similar conditions have led to widespread flooding in Kolkata and its adjoining districts. City authorities, however, claim that efforts are being made to strengthen drainage networks and deploy additional pumps in flood-prone areas. Meteorologists are also monitoring the development of a low-pressure system that could form in the Bay, further influencing the rainfall pattern in West Bengal.
Monsoon’s Impact on Daily Life
The rains have disrupted not only movement but also infrastructure and essential services. Last week, heavy rainfall over a two-hour period submerged large stretches of EM Bypass and Sector V, leaving commuters stranded for hours. App-based cab services hiked fares, while Metro services witnessed overcrowding as passengers sought alternatives to flooded roads. Parents of schoolchildren have also voiced concern, as travel becomes increasingly unsafe during heavy rain spells.
Indoor humidity is another issue plaguing households. Residents across south Kolkata complain of damp walls, fungal growth, and furniture damage due to prolonged exposure to moisture. Medical professionals warn of an increase in seasonal diseases such as respiratory infections, skin allergies, and gastrointestinal issues. Dengue and malaria cases are also expected to rise if stagnant water continues to accumulate in residential and public areas.
Ripple Effect on Agriculture and Economy
Beyond the city, the rains have a significant impact on agriculture in the surrounding districts. Farmers cultivating paddy, vegetables, and jute are facing difficulties in transporting their produce to Kolkata markets due to waterlogged village roads and flooded highways. Trucks carrying perishable goods are often delayed, resulting in partial losses. This has triggered fears of a price hike in essential food items, particularly vegetables and fish, in city markets.
In the wholesale hubs of Sealdah and Howrah, traders are already witnessing fluctuations in supply. Vegetables like cauliflower, beans, and spinach, which are more vulnerable to water damage, could see rising prices if heavy rains persist. The fish trade, central to Bengal’s food culture, is also facing challenges, with transport disruptions reducing availability. Economists suggest that if weather conditions don’t stabilize within the week, household expenses may rise sharply.
Safety & Preparedness Tips for Citizens
Authorities and weather experts have urged citizens to take adequate precautions during this extended monsoon spell. The IMD has advised avoiding unnecessary travel during peak rainfall hours and has stressed the importance of following official weather updates. Commuters are encouraged to carry waterproof gear, while residents are advised to ensure proper mosquito control at home.
Doctors recommend drinking clean, boiled water and maintaining hygiene to prevent waterborne infections. Civic authorities, meanwhile, have assured citizens that additional pumps are being deployed in waterlogging-prone areas and emergency response teams are on standby. However, given the scale of the problem, residents are encouraged to keep essentials stocked in case of supply chain disruptions.
External Links for Deeper Reading
- Climate of Kolkata – Seasonal Patterns
- AccuWeather – 7-Day Kolkata Forecast
- Weather.com – Extended Rainfall Outlook for Kolkata
- India Meteorological Department – Official Forecast
Also read: Home | Channel 6 Network – Latest News, Breaking Updates: Politics, Business, Tech & More
