Kolkata Weather Today: Rain and Thunderstorms to Keep City Cloudy as Monsoon Activity Intensifies

Kolkata, August 27, 2026: Kolkata is likely to remain under the grip of a humid and unsettled monsoon pattern on Thursday, with cloudy skies, spells of rain and the possibility of thunderstorms expected to shape weather conditions across the city. The latest forecasts indicate that rainfall activity will remain significant over Kolkata and other parts of south Bengal as a weather system over the Bay of Bengal continues to influence the region.

The city began the day with predominantly cloudy conditions, with temperatures hovering around 30°C in the morning. The forecast suggests that the mercury could climb to around 33°C during the day before easing later. Despite the relatively moderate maximum temperature, high atmospheric moisture is likely to keep Kolkata sultry and uncomfortable, particularly during periods when rainfall temporarily recedes.

Rain is expected to remain one of the defining features of Thursday’s weather. The Alipore weather office has indicated the possibility of rain accompanied by lightning and gusty winds across south Bengal, with Kolkata also remaining within the zone of heightened monsoon activity. Similar conditions are expected to continue on August 28, suggesting that Thursday’s weather may not be an isolated spell but part of a broader period of unsettled conditions.

The developing weather system over the Bay of Bengal is particularly significant as meteorologists are watching its evolution closely. According to a Times of India report published Thursday, the system could strengthen rainfall over Kolkata and surrounding areas during the coming weekend. The developing pattern has raised the possibility of heavier showers, with authorities keeping a close watch on areas vulnerable to waterlogging and disruption.

For Kolkata residents, the most noticeable impact is likely to be on daily commuting. Sudden spells of rain can slow traffic considerably, while water accumulation in low-lying stretches may create additional difficulties for motorists, pedestrians and public transport users. The combination of wet roads, reduced visibility and intermittent thunderstorms could make travel particularly inconvenient during intense showers.

The weather situation also comes amid a broader resurgence of monsoon activity across India. The India Meteorological Department has forecast widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds across several regions between August 25 and 31, with some areas facing the possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall. West Bengal is among the regions expected to remain influenced by this active weather pattern.

The developing conditions over the Bay are therefore being closely watched because even a gradual strengthening of the system can alter rainfall distribution across south Bengal. Kolkata may see intermittent rain rather than continuous downpours, but individual spells could become intense enough to cause temporary waterlogging and traffic bottlenecks.

Humidity will remain another major concern for city residents. Even when rainfall brings a temporary drop in temperature, moisture levels near the surface can remain elevated, preventing any sustained feeling of relief. The result is the familiar monsoon combination of sticky conditions, cloudy skies and sudden showers.

Thunderstorms also warrant caution. Residents should avoid exposed locations during lightning activity and seek shelter indoors rather than remaining under isolated trees or near open areas. Gusty winds accompanying thunderstorms can also make temporary outdoor structures, hoardings and tree-lined roads potentially hazardous.

The forecast outlook suggests that Kolkata’s unsettled weather will persist beyond Thursday. Rain is expected to remain possible on Friday and through the weekend, while temperatures are likely to remain broadly in the low 30s. This means the city is unlikely to experience a prolonged spell of dry, clear weather in the immediate future.

For commuters, the safest approach would be to keep rain gear handy and allow additional travel time, particularly if dark clouds gather during peak office or school hours. People travelling on two-wheelers should exercise additional caution on slippery roads, while pedestrians should remain alert around areas prone to sudden water accumulation.

With the monsoon system continuing to evolve, Kolkata’s weather could change rapidly over the next few days. While the city is not expected to escape the familiar humidity of late-August weather, the possibility of recurring showers and thunderstorms should provide occasional relief from the heat while simultaneously creating challenges for everyday mobility.

For now, Kolkata remains firmly in monsoon mode: grey skies, humid air and intermittent rain are likely to dominate Thursday, with the possibility of stronger showers increasing as the weather system over the Bay of Bengal develops further. Residents are advised to follow the latest advisories from the India Meteorological Department, particularly if rainfall intensifies or thunderstorm activity increases.