As March comes to a close, West Bengal is bracing for a significant weather shift. The Alipore Meteorological Department has issued a high alert for “Kalbaisakhi” (Nor’westers) across the state today, March 31, 2026. After a humid morning, the sky has turned gloomy, signaling intense thunderstorm activity later in the evening.

Regional Forecast and Impact: A trough extending from Bihar to Gangetic West Bengal, combined with heavy moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal, has created ideal conditions for severe thunderstorms. Districts like Howrah, Hooghly, East Burdwan, Nadia, and North & South 24 Parganas are under watch for squally winds reaching 50-60 kmph. There is also a strong possibility of hailstorms in isolated pockets of South Bengal.

Kolkata Forecast: A ‘Yellow Alert’ has been issued for Kolkata. Residents should prepare for moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning and gusty winds tonight. Following Monday’s late-night showers, tonight’s spell is expected to be more widespread. This could lead to temporary waterlogging and traffic disruptions in urban areas.

North Bengal and Coastal Areas: Northern districts including Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, and Kalimpong are also expected to receive light to moderate rainfall. Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea off the West Bengal and Odisha coasts due to rough sea conditions and squally winds. The IMD has urged citizens to take shelter in safe structures during lightning activity to avoid accidents.