North Bengal snowfall was reported in the high-altitude areas of Darjeeling district and Sikkim on Wednesday, while rain, thunderstorms and severe hail affected lower-lying areas including Siliguri and parts of Jalpaiguri. The sudden weather change brought possible disruption for trekkers and residents, with hailstones damaging tin roofs and farmers fearing crop losses.
Light snowfall began around 12.30pm in the Sandakphu and Phalut regions and continued for about an hour, according to Bikram Chettri, president of the Society for Highlander Guides and Porters Welfare Association. Sandakphu, at around 11,930 feet above sea level, is Bengal’s highest point. The snowfall covered parts of the Singalila National Park along the Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling district.
The mountain route through the Singalila region is used by trekkers and nature lovers and is known for its views of Himalayan peaks, as well as its high-altitude flora and fauna. Chettri said the snowfall ahead of the peak winter season could support tourist turnout, although the weather also adds to the need for caution among people travelling on exposed mountain trails.
Snowfall was also reported from Tsomgo Lake, also known as Chhangu Lake, Nathu-la and other high-altitude locations in northern and eastern Sikkim. These areas are exposed to rapid weather changes, and fresh snow can affect access along mountain roads and travel plans, although the report did not provide details of any road closure or transport disruption.
In the plains, the weather shifted sharply during the afternoon. Siliguri and adjoining areas saw light rainfall after the sky turned gloomy in the late afternoon and evening. Rajganj and Kranti blocks in Jalpaiguri district experienced strong winds, heavy rain and intense hail around 5pm.
Residents said the day had begun with sunshine and little indication of the storm that followed. In some areas, hailstones damaged the tin roofs of houses. Farmers were concerned that standing crops may have been affected and were expected to assess the damage on Thursday morning.
The India Meteorological Department forecast light thunderstorms and lightning, along with light to moderate rain, during the following 24 hours. Snowfall was likely over higher ridges in Sikkim, with Mangan, Pakyong, Gyalshing, Soreng and Namchi among the districts identified as likely to receive snow.
A similar forecast indicated that light to moderate rain could affect most districts of North Bengal during the same period. The forecast places both high-altitude travel areas and populated plains districts under a period of unsettled weather, with the immediate effects varying between snow in the hills, rain in the plains and hail in parts of Jalpaiguri.
