Kolkata is poised to receive widespread heavy rainfall this week, as two distinct cyclonic circulations, one over northern Odisha and another over the central Bay of Bengal. converge to accelerate the arrival of the southwest monsoon across eastern India. Weather experts anticipate a sharp decline in temperature and a sustained spell of rain is a much-needed relief to residents following days of oppressive heat.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a ‘yellow’ alert across Kolkata and parts of south Bengal, signalling the likelihood of moderate to heavy downpours beginning midweek. According to officials at the Regional Meteorological Centre, conditions are now favourable for the advancement of the southwest monsoon into more parts of Bengal, including Kolkata, which missed its typical monsoon onset date of June 10.
The monsoon, which made an early arrival in north Bengal on May 29 — a full eight days ahead of schedule — had stalled soon after, failing to progress further into southern Bengal. This delay led to rising temperatures and persistent discomfort for residents of Kolkata and surrounding districts. The meteorologists say the scenario is changing. The dual cyclonic circulations, one located over north Odisha and extending southward with altitude, and the other positioned over the central Bay of Bengal, are working in tandem to generate favourable conditions for widespread rain activity. A supporting upper air trough extending from northwest Uttar Pradesh to the west-central Bay of Bengal is further amplifying this pattern, with cloud bands already forming over the Bay.
Consistent rainfall at the onset of the monsoon can help recharge groundwater levels, cleanse polluted air, and moderate extreme urban temperatures, which have been exacerbated in recent years due to rapid construction and heat-retaining infrastructure. Despite the potential challenges, officials see the current development as a critical phase in rebalancing Kolkata’s seasonal weather patterns.On the sustainability front, environmental researchers point out that well-timed and well-distributed rainfall is crucial for creating heat-resilient cities. Rain acts as a natural cooling agent and, if harnessed through urban planning — such as through rainwater harvesting and permeable road surfaces — can significantly reduce the need for artificial cooling systems that contribute to urban carbon emissions.
While short-term forecasts are useful for citizens planning their daily routines, city administrators must look beyond immediate rain events and focus on climate-resilient infrastructure. This includes flood-resilient construction, green urban zones to absorb water, and robust early-warning systems. IMD officials will monitor the twin cyclonic systems closely. The agency is expected to provide updated advisories later this week based on satellite imagery and surface observations. For now, the guidance to the public remains clear — stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel during peak rainfall hours, and prepare for a wetter-than-usual second half of June.
This is an opportunity for the city to test its climate readiness, resilience, and its ability to balance growth with nature. Let the rain come, but let the response be sustainable.
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