Kolkata Braces for Kalbaishakhi Fury: Orange Alert Issued for Heavy Storms

The “City of Joy” currently stands on the Orange Alert status with the IMD predicting a drastic change in weather conditions today, April 8, 2026. With the day starting off at a current temperature of 31°C and relative humidity at 62%, the initially bright day is likely to take a turn for the worse and be marked with thunder squalls and turbulent weather conditions in the afternoon.
Kalbaisakhi Formation and Daytime Threats:
Extremely unstable atmospheric conditions have developed due to cyclonic circulation around Odisha and a moist trough stretching up to Gangetic West Bengal which would result in extreme “Kalbaisakhi” (Nor’wester) storms hitting the urban landscape.
Present data shows that the current conditions are:

• Apparent Temperature: 35°C
• Wind: 6 mph out of the South (wind is predicted to pick up very soon)
• UV Index: 6 (High)
  While it might look like a bright sunny day to a few people, the IMD has issued an indication of change in weather patterns to a “generally cloudy sky”. Thunder squalls carrying wind speeds ranging from 50 to 60 kmph are predicted to hit the metropolis along with lightning showers and light rains.

Forecasting Severe Night:
The forecast indicates the most severe occurrence will take place tonight. There will be 95% probability of thunderstorms.

• Highest/Lowest Temperature: 33°C / 22°C
• Winds in the Evening: Winds blowing at an average of 10 mph, but high gusts possible.
• Amount of Precipitation: 99.99% chance of rain that may cause waterlogging in some localities.
  Public Announcement
  It has been advised for everyone to take extra precautions while the squall hits. Drivers should watch out for trees falling down due to the high-speed wind. With the UV index going up to 9 before the squall starts, and the humidity level high at 57%-62%, it is recommended to keep yourself hydrated and avoid venturing outside from noon until the end of the storm on Thursday.
  Sources verified by IMD and Google Weather, 08/04/2026 09:03 AM IST.