Kolkata Weather Today: Rain Returns As Cloudy Skies, Thunderstorms Keep City On Alert

Kolkata is likely to experience another unsettled monsoon day on Friday, September 18, with the city caught between humid conditions, thick cloud cover and spells of rain. The latest India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast indicates that Kolkata-Howrah can expect a generally cloudy sky with moderate rain, while thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of around 30–40 kmph remain a concern. ⁠

The weather has also remained notably humid. IMD’s Kolkata-Howrah observations recorded 18 mm of rainfall during the 24-hour period ending at 8.30am on Friday, while relative humidity stood at 80% at the same observation time. The minimum temperature was recorded at 24°C, although the city’s daytime temperature is expected to climb substantially as the day progresses. ⁠

For Kolkata, the official local forecast puts Friday’s minimum around 25°C and maximum around 35°C, with generally cloudy conditions and moderate rain. The forecast also specifically mentions the possibility of thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds. Similar conditions are expected to persist through September 20, before the warning situation becomes quieter from September 21. ⁠

The latest regional outlook suggests that the rain spell is not confined to the city. Gangetic West Bengal is expected to experience thunderstorm and lightning activity on September 18, 19 and 20. The broader weather pattern indicates fairly widespread rainfall over Gangetic West Bengal during September 17–20, making the next few days potentially changeable across southern parts of the state. ⁠

For Kolkata residents, the most noticeable feature may be the contrast between rainfall and persistent humidity. Even when showers temporarily bring down the temperature, moisture-laden air can make outdoor conditions feel considerably warmer and more uncomfortable than the thermometer suggests. Intermittent rain can also lead to sudden changes in road conditions, particularly during the afternoon and evening when thunderstorm activity develops.

The timing of the showers could be particularly significant for daily commuters. A day that begins with comparatively manageable conditions can quickly turn cloudy, with rain and thunderstorms developing later. Current forecasts from the Indian Express also indicate the possibility of rain showers during the morning and further cloudiness through the afternoon, reinforcing the likelihood of a stop-start weather pattern rather than continuous rainfall. ⁠

The weather system is also drawing attention because of the approaching festive season. With Durga Puja preparations gathering pace, continued rain could affect outdoor shopping, pandal construction and other activities across Kolkata and neighbouring districts. A report published Friday by the Bengali edition of the Indian Express said that several parts of South Bengal could see moderate to heavy rain on Friday and Saturday, with scattered rainfall potentially continuing into Sunday. ⁠

North Bengal is meanwhile facing a different level of weather activity, with the IMD maintaining a heavy-rain warning for parts of the sub-Himalayan region. The regional contrast means that while Kolkata’s main concern is thunderstorms and rain, some northern districts could experience considerably heavier precipitation. ⁠

Looking ahead, Kolkata’s unsettled weather is expected to continue over the weekend. The official city forecast keeps moderate rain and thunderstorm activity in the picture through September 20. From September 21, the forecast shifts towards generally cloudy conditions without a specific warning, although rain can return later in the week. ⁠

For Friday, therefore, Kolkata’s weather story is less about a dramatic temperature drop and more about an atmosphere loaded with moisture and instability. Cloud cover, humidity, intermittent rain and the possibility of lightning and gusty winds are likely to define the day. Residents heading out should remain prepared for sudden showers, particularly during periods when darker clouds build over the city.

With the monsoon still influencing Bengal’s weather pattern, Kolkata is unlikely to see a clean transition to dry conditions just yet. Instead, the next few days could bring the familiar September combination of heat, humidity and sudden rain — a weather pattern that may become an important factor as the city moves deeper into its pre-Puja preparations. ⁠