Kolkata weather today: Rain clouds linger, but heavy downpour unlikely in city

KOLKATA: Kolkata is likely to remain under a distinctly monsoonal spell on Sunday, September 13, with humid conditions, intermittent cloud cover and the possibility of thundery showers keeping the weather unsettled through the day. The latest forecast indicates that the city may see periods of sunshine interrupted by showers, while the broader weather pattern over southern West Bengal remains influenced by a low-pressure system over the northern Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas. ⁠

The morning began on an unstable note, with thunderstorm activity reported around Kolkata. Weather conditions are expected to remain changeable as the day progresses, with a few spells of rain or thundershowers possible, particularly during the afternoon. However, the latest outlook suggests that Kolkata itself is unlikely to witness a prolonged spell of very heavy rain. The Met department has indicated that heavy rainfall is not expected to become a major concern for the city over the next few days. ⁠

The contrast between Kolkata and several other parts of Bengal is likely to remain noticeable. While the city may receive light to moderate rain, some districts of south Bengal are facing a greater possibility of intense precipitation. East and West Midnapore, Jhargram, Purulia and South 24 Parganas have been identified among the areas at greater risk of heavier rainfall under the prevailing weather system. ⁠

The present spell is linked to enhanced monsoonal activity over the Bay of Bengal. A low-pressure area that intensified over the northern Bay of Bengal and adjoining Bangladesh has been contributing to widespread rainfall across West Bengal. The system has already triggered significant showers across Kolkata and neighbouring areas, with the city recording more than 45 mm of rain during the recent spell, according to reports. ⁠

For Kolkata residents, the immediate concern is therefore less about a continuous cloudburst and more about sudden bursts of rain accompanied by lightning and gusty winds. Such short-duration spells can quickly affect road conditions, visibility and traffic movement, particularly across low-lying stretches of the city. Commuters may also encounter water accumulation in vulnerable pockets if a concentrated shower coincides with peak traffic hours.

The weather is also expected to retain a distinctly humid character. Even when rain temporarily lowers temperatures, high atmospheric moisture can make conditions feel warmer and more oppressive once the showers pass. The combination of cloud breaks, moisture and intermittent rain is likely to keep Kolkata’s weather fluctuating rather than allowing the city to settle into a prolonged dry spell.

The outlook for the coming days suggests that rainfall will gradually become less intense over Kolkata, although isolated showers cannot be ruled out. Forecast data indicates a rise in daytime temperatures from Monday, with the mercury potentially climbing into the mid-30s Celsius before further intermittent showers and cloud cover return later in the week.

The latest India Meteorological Department bulletin also continues to monitor the evolving monsoon pattern over eastern India and the Bay of Bengal. With weather systems in this region capable of changing rapidly, residents are advised to keep track of updated local forecasts, particularly when planning outdoor travel. ⁠

For now, Kolkata’s Sunday weather is best described as unsettled rather than severely stormy. The city can expect a mix of cloud, brief sunshine and intermittent thundershowers, while the possibility of sudden rain means umbrellas and rain protection remain useful for those stepping out. The more intense weather activity is expected to remain concentrated in parts of southern and northern West Bengal rather than Kolkata itself. ⁠