West Bengal is bracing for a severe spell of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall over the next few days. According to the IMD Kolkata, multiple districts across the state are likely to witness lightning strikes and high-velocity winds.

South Bengal Weather: A major alert has been issued for South Bengal districts including Purulia, Bankura, Jhargram, and Hooghly. On Friday, these areas might witness squalls with wind speeds reaching up to 60-70 kmph. Evening hailstorms are expected in the western belt, posing a risk to standing crops.

North Bengal Forecast: Heavy to very heavy rainfall (up to 20 cm) is predicted for Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar. Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Cooch Behar are also on high alert for hailstorms and gusty winds ranging between 50-60 kmph.

Fishermen Warning: Due to turbulent sea conditions, the weather office has advised fishermen not to venture into the Bay of Bengal along the West Bengal and North Odisha coasts on March 20th and 21st, 2026. Winds near the coast are expected to surge up to 60 kmph, making maritime activities hazardous.