The Alipore Meteorological Department has sounded a high alert for West Bengal as a severe ‘Kalbaishakhi’ (Nor’wester) storm is expected to lash both the Northern and Southern districts starting Friday afternoon. This follows a spell of scattered rain and hailstorms experienced on Thursday in several pockets of the state.

According to the latest forecast, South Bengal districts including Purulia, Bankura, Jhargram, West Midnapore, and West Burdwan are likely to witness gusty winds reaching speeds of 50–60 kmph, accompanied by thunder and hailstorms. Kolkata and its neighboring areas are also on alert for wind speeds between 40–50 kmph. This turbulent weather is expected to persist throughout Saturday.

In North Bengal, a heavy rain warning has been issued for Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar. Specifically, the hills are braced for significant hailstorms and heavy downpours. Cooch Behar and Malda are also likely to experience lightning and moderate rainfall with high-velocity winds. The weather office predicts that conditions will only begin to stabilize after Sunday afternoon, urging citizens to stay indoors during the peak storm hours.