The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Monday that the southwest monsoon is likely to enter the sub-Himalayan regions of West Bengal, specifically Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri, within the next three to four days. This arrival is expected to bring significant rainfall, marking a pivotal shift in the region’s climate.
According to IMD’s latest bulletin, northern districts have already experienced pre-monsoon rains, which sets the stage for the monsoon’s progression into the area. Although the anticipated arrival date was June 6, conditions have developed favorably for the monsoon’s advancement.
Despite sporadic rainfall in some regions, south Bengal continues to contend with high humidity levels, contributing to a generally uncomfortable environment. The IMD has warned of heavy rainfall in the upcoming days, particularly in the sub-Himalayan districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar.
For the next two days, light to moderate rain is expected to grace the southern districts of West Bengal. The latest data reveals that Alipurduar, which borders Assam, received the highest rainfall recorded in the last 24 hours, measuring an impressive 133 mm by 8:30 am on Monday. Additionally, other regions like Jalpaiguri (53 mm), Cooch Behar (18 mm), Darjeeling (7.8 mm), and Kalimpong (19 mm) experienced varying degrees of rainfall during this period.
This year, the delayed entry of the monsoon could have significant implications for the agricultural landscape in West Bengal, which heavily relies on timely rains for crop irrigation. Farmers in the region eagerly await clear weather updates to plan their sowing schedules accordingly.
Experts from the IMD remain vigilant, monitoring weather patterns closely as they predict further developments in the coming days. As anticipation builds for the arrival of the rains, residents of North Bengal prepare for the monsoon’s blend of relief and challenges that define this season.
In summary, the IMD’s forecast brings welcome news to North Bengal, where the southwest monsoon is set to arrive soon, though it marks a departure from the usual schedule. Preparations for heavy rainfall are underway as locals ready themselves for the typical vagaries of the monsoon.
