Monsoon Arrival in Kolkata 2025: As Kolkata braces for the onset of the southwest monsoon, meteorological indicators reveal a nearly imminent arrival—forecasted between Wednesday and Thursday, June 18, 2025. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has reported cloud columns over the city, driven by cyclonic circulations over the Bay of Bengal, signaling a shift from summer heat to steady rain . With summer’s peak behind us, residents anticipate cooler days, but heavy rainfall may bring its own set of challenges. This article delves into when the monsoon will officially strike Kolkata, what it means for daily life, the historical context, and preparations needed for residents, farmers, businesses, and local authorities.
WMonsoon Arrival in Kolkata 2025: When Will the Monsoon Reach Kolkata?
IMD’s Prognosis
- A cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal is consolidating, bringing moisture-laden winds into Bengal. The IMD forecasts full monsoon onset between June 16–18, covering Gangetic and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal soon after.
- Meteorologist H.R. Biswas notes that scattered showers already soaked parts of the city and Hooghly district, while intensity is expected to ramp up by Tuesday afternoon.
Comparing to Past Records
- Historically, monsoon reaches north Bengal by June 5 and south Bengal (including Kolkata) by June 10.
- This year, north Bengal received monsoon rains on May 29, but south Bengal’s advance stalled due to weak currents—thus the delay.
Cyclonic Circulations: Nature’s Signposts
Two low-pressure systems in the northwest Bay of Bengal and coastal Odisha are steering significant meteorological changes. These systems:
- Energize moisture inflows to Bengal.
- Trigger widespread showers across South Bengal from Monday onward.
- Propel the monsoon advance into Kolkata within three days.
Current Weather Snapshot in the City
- June 16 began with warm, humid sunshine followed by scattered evening showers .
- Expect steady rainfall with high humidity, potentially disrupting afternoon routines; “carry an umbrella” seems apt.
- Temperatures currently hover between 34–35 °C by day and remain muggy even in the evening.
Historical Records and Onset Patterns
- The normal Kolkata onset date is June 10, but variations are common—up to a week either side.
- The early northwest monsoon in south Bengal since May 29 indicates a bifurcated progression: swift in the north, slower in the south.
- The Southwest Monsoon of 2025 is shaping up to be one of the earliest since 2010, with early signs observed in Kerala on May 24.
Recent Stalls and Current Latency
Although intense rainfall swept Pune, Maharashtra this week, south Bengal’s monsoon was delayed by weakened cyclonic activity. RMC scientists observed that while north Bengal was fully covered by June 5, Kolkata and southern districts lagged till June 15, attributed to weak currents over Odisha.
Effects and Disruptions Ahead
Urban Living
- Expect waterlogging, traffic snarls, and wet public infrastructure.
- Public transport may face delays—metros are generally more resilient, but buses and trams may slow down.
Agriculture & Rural Life
- Respite for crops, relief for farmers—but runoff and flooding risks along Hooghly and rural areas near the city.
- Kharif sowing benefits, provided local irrigation systems cope with excess water.
Health & Environment
- High heat-humidity index may initially spike mosquito breeding, increasing dengue and malaria risk.
- Breather from heat once monsoon fully sets in, but vigilance remains essential.
Meteorological Mechanics & Science
- The Southwest Monsoonal Branches—Arabian Sea branch leading up northwest India and Bay of Bengal branch feeding east and southeast India.
- A cyclonic circulation in the Bay of Bengal helps the monsoon front push inland.
- Forecast records indicate low-pressure variability between June 10–17, with storms forming und predictably.
Regional Ripple Effects
- Coastal Bengal, including South 24-Parganas and East Medinipur, will witness heavy downpours through mid-June.
- The intensity may overshadow light drizzles, easing into heavier rain by Monday–Tuesday.
Long-Term Climate Patterns & Change
- Climate research indicates an increase in extreme rainfall events during El Niño summers, common before monsoon arrival.
- Studies also show a gradual weakening of monsoon circulation, with possible implications for unpredictability and intensity.
Precedents in Major Rainfall Events
- The 2017 Bengal floods from record monsoon rains caused massive damage across West Bengal and highlight the need for preparedness.
- Such precedents underscore importance of drainage preparedness and improved urban resilience.
Preparatory Measures for Kolkata
Civic Authorities
- Inspect storm drains and stormwater outlets.
- Service fleet of drainage pumps and water-tanks ready for emergency deployment.
Residents & Local Businesses
- Weather-proof equipment and goods.
- Check roof and wall leaks; ensure umbrella, rain gear, and lightweight waterproof shoes are handy.
Agriculture & Farmers
- Maintain soil moisture balance for paddy, pulses.
- Plan for possible pre-monsoon showers, especially for harvests nearby.
Community Alerts & Media Watches
- The IMD’s special bulletins are issued for rain updates across sub-regions in Bengal .
- Public advisories for pregnant women, elderly, and commuters via local radio and citywide broadcast.
Outlook Beyond Kolkata
- Monsoon progression to Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, and eastern Uttar Pradesh expected within 3 days.
- Adjacent regions like North-East India, Jharkhand, and Central India will begin monsoon flush by mid-June.
Conclusion
The arrival of the southwest monsoon in Kolkata marks the end of oppressive heat and ushers in a crucial period for agriculture, water security, and urban management. With rains expected to begin imminently, readiness—from homes to civic bodies—is key. The 2025 monsoon’s early advance in Bengal’s north and cautious emergence in Kolkata reflects the unpredictable nature of climate shifts.
As the city transitions to the rainy season, balance between preparedness and adaptability is vital. Kolkata, a city that breathes in the rain, is about to re-embrace its rhythm—let’s ensure it does so smoothly.
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