Heavy downpours battered Kolkata and neighbouring areas on Sunday as the southwest monsoon gripped West Bengal, bringing a much-needed respite from oppressive humidity, but also triggering waterlogging and traffic disruptions. 

The rain affected normal life in several parts of the city. Commuters faced prolonged delays as roads became inundated. The heavy showers also posed challenges for NEET UG 2026-bound candidates, with many reporting difficulties in reaching their respective exam centres on time. 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that rainfall activity is expected to intensify further in the coming days, particularly in Bengal’s northern districts, as favourable monsoon conditions persist across the state. 

Low-lying areas reel under waterlogging

Several areas of Kolkata saw intense spells of rain from the early hours of Sunday, resulting in waterlogged streets and traffic snarls. The city’s low-lying localities also suffered from rainwater accumulation, causing inconvenience to residents and motorists alike.

The IMD attributed the widespread rainfall to the advancement of the southwest monsoon into West Bengal, coupled with a strong influx of moisture from the Bay of Bengal. As per meteorologists, the current atmospheric conditions remain highly favourable for sustained rainfall activity across both North and South Bengal. The incessant influx of moisture from the sea is strengthening rain-bearing systems and is enhancing precipitation across the region.

Red Alert sounded for North Bengal

The IMD has issued a red alert for Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri districts, which are expected to receive heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. The area is likely to witness localised flooding, landslides in vulnerable zones and disruptions to transportations.

Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Cooch Behar districts have received an orange alert, where heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely over the upcoming days. 

Weather experts have cautioned that sub-Himalayan West Bengal, along with neighbouring Sikkim and parts of the Northeastern region, could continue to receive intense rain  throughout the week as the monsoon system remains active. 

Thunderstorms, lightning threat looms over South Bengal

The weather body has also flagged adverse weather conditions in South Bengal. Districts such as Purba Bardhaman, Paschim Bardhaman, Birbhum and Murshidabad are likely to witness heavy rainfall accompanied by gusty winds blowing at a speed of up to 50 km/hour. For Monday, the IMD has forecast light to moderate rainfall along with isolated thunderstorms across much of South Bengal.