Kolkata: Driven by the intense rain spells from Cyclone Remal, Kolkata has already received approximately 26% of its annual average rainfall, well before the monsoon’s official arrival.
Although Tuesday remained largely dry, the Meteorological Department has not dismissed the possibility of thundershower spells towards the weekend. These anticipated rain spells, though less intense, could help prevent a sudden rise in temperatures. According to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Kolkata’s annual average rainfall is 1,661 mm, with a mean rainfall for May standing at 118.5 mm. This year, the city has already recorded 435.3 mm of rainfall in May, nearly 200 mm of which was triggered by Cyclone Remal over Sunday and Monday. This amount has significantly surpassed the monthly average.
“It is not uncommon for the rainfall in May to deviate significantly from the month’s mean. May is known for cyclones and severe thundershowers, such as nor’westers, which can lead to substantial deviations from the average,” stated an official from the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Kolkata.
The onset of the monsoon in Kolkata and other parts of southern Bengal is expected between June 10 and 11, with an error margin of four days on either side. Historically, May is the month when the city experiences local thundershowers and pre-monsoon rains. Climatologically, Kolkata is expected to have 6.2 rainy days in May, including 2.2 days of squalls under normal conditions. The city experienced its first nor’wester on May 7, with a sharp spell of 71 mm of rain, providing relief from the prevailing heatwave conditions. With 435.3 mm of rain so far, May 2024 is the rainiest May in the past five years, with Monday recording the second-highest single-day rainfall in this period at 189.6 mm. The highest was on May 21, 2020, with 236.3 mm.
The intense rain and squally winds during Cyclone Remal’s passage brought down the maximum temperature by around nine degrees on Monday, reaching 26.6°C, while the minimum temperature was 25°C. With rain halting by Monday afternoon, temperatures have started to rise. On Tuesday, Kolkata recorded a maximum temperature of 33°C, two degrees below normal. The Met office predicts a slight increase in temperature over the coming days.
“While the rise in temperature will not be sharp, the high humidity will likely cause discomfort. The city is currently receiving southerly winds, and isolated rain spells cannot be ruled out,” added the official. The maximum temperature in the next few days is expected to hover around the normal mark of 34°C, with minimum temperatures ranging between 27°C and 28°C.
The proactive measures by the Meteorological Department and the responsiveness of the local authorities have been crucial in mitigating the impacts of these intense weather conditions. The early and significant rainfall highlights the city’s susceptibility to climatic variations, underscoring the importance of continued vigilance and preparedness.
