The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Monday that the southwest monsoon is predicted to reach West Bengal’s sub-Himalayan districts, including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri, within the next three to four days.
The northern districts of West Bengal currently experience pre-monsoon rainfall, with heavy rains forecasted in the coming days. According to the IMD, weather conditions are favorable for the southwest monsoon’s advancement into some areas, marking a delay from the normal entry date of June 6.
Despite some rainfall, south Bengal continues to experience high humidity levels. The IMD bulletin warned of heavy rainfall expected over the next two days, especially in the sub-Himalayan districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar.
For southern districts of West Bengal, light to moderate rainfall is also likely during this period. The bulletin specified that Alipurduar, which borders Assam, recorded the most rainfall in the state over the last 24 hours, with a significant 133 mm reported by the IMD.
Rainfall figures show Jalpaiguri received 53 mm, Cooch Behar 18 mm, while Darjeeling and Kalimpong experienced lower levels at 7.8 mm and 19 mm, respectively. This early precipitation and the impending monsoon signify a crucial period for agriculture and water resources in the region.
Experts emphasize the importance of the monsoon in sustaining the agrarian economy, and its delayed arrival raises concerns regarding crop health in the area. Farmers are hopeful that the anticipated rains will provide timely support to their crops, following an unusually dry spell.
The IMD will continue to monitor weather conditions and provide updates as the southwest monsoon approaches. Residents are advised to prepare for the forthcoming rainfall and take necessary precautions.
