IMD Forecast: Thunderstorms Across Bengal Till April 9, Temperatures Set to Drop

KalimNews, Kolkata, April 5, 2026 : The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread thunderstorm activity across several districts of West Bengal until April 9. Light to moderate rain or thundershowers are very likely to occur in many places, bringing relief from the heat with a noticeable dip in maximum temperatures.

Favourable wind patterns combined with strong moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal are expected to trigger rainfall across most districts. As a result, daytime temperatures are likely to fall by around 3 to 4 degrees Celsius over the next few days.

The IMD further stated that thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, gusty winds (40–50 kmph), and even hail are very likely to occur at isolated places. Districts including Purulia, Bankura, Purba and Paschim Bardhaman, Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, Murshidabad, North 24 Parganas, and Hooghly are expected to experience such conditions.

Meanwhile, light to moderate rain or thundershowers are likely over the remaining districts of South Bengal. In North Bengal, sub-Himalayan districts such as Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri, and Cooch Behar may witness thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph.

Kolkata is also likely to experience light thunderstorms accompanied by rain, especially during the afternoon or evening hours.

Weather System Behind the Change

A trough extending from Gangetic West Bengal to Telangana across Chhattisgarh at about 0.9 km above mean sea level is influencing the weather pattern. Due to this system, along with strong moisture inflow from the Bay of Bengal, enhanced thunderstorm activity is expected across parts of the state between April 5 and April 9, 2026.

Temperature Outlook

• Gradual fall in maximum temperatures by 3–5°C over the next 4 days
• Followed by a gradual rise of 2–4°C over the subsequent 2 days

South Bengal Forecast

April 6:

Rain likely in many areas, especially Purulia, Jhargram, and East & West Midnapore. Thunderstorm activity with winds up to 50 kmph expected.

April 7:

Rain and thundershowers likely across all districts. Stronger gusts (up to 60 kmph) possible in districts like Purulia, Bankura, and West Midnapore.

April 8:

Rain likely at most places across South Bengal. Thunderstorms with gusty winds (50–60 kmph) expected in several districts including Howrah, Hooghly, Nadia, and North 24 Parganas.

April 9:

Rainfall expected in districts like North & South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, Nadia, Murshidabad, and Birbhum, along with thunderstorms and gusty winds.

April 10–11:

Light rain likely in isolated areas; dry weather expected over most districts.

North Bengal Forecast

April 6:

Scattered light to moderate rain with thunderstorms and winds up to 40 kmph.

April 7:

Increased rainfall activity with thunderstorms and possible hail in select districts.

April 8:

Rain expected across most districts. Heavy rainfall (7–11 cm) likely in Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Kalimpong. Thunderstorms and hail possible.

April 9:

Rain and thunderstorms likely across most districts with gusty winds.

April 10–11:

Light rain in isolated areas; dry weather likely elsewhere.

Residents are advised to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity, especially in areas prone to strong winds and lightning. Secure loose objects, avoid open fields during storms, and stay updated with official weather advisories.