Kolkata: A severe pre-monsoon storm accompanied by heavy rainfall affected several districts across South Bengal, including Kolkata, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, Nadia, East Midnapore and West Midnapore. The storm disrupted transportation services, damaged infrastructure, uprooted trees and affected normal life in multiple areas.
Sudden Change in Weather Conditions
According to meteorological officials, a strong convective weather system developed over South Bengal, triggering thunderstorms, gusty winds and heavy rainfall. Dark clouds quickly gathered across several districts before strong winds and intense rain swept through the region.
Residents reported fallen trees, damaged structures, reduced visibility and traffic disruptions during the storm.
Casualties and Injuries Reported
According to preliminary reports, multiple casualties and injuries were reported in storm-related incidents. The reported incidents were linked to falling trees, damaged electrical infrastructure, structural collapses and lightning strikes in some areas.
Authorities are continuing assessments to determine the full extent of the damage and the number of affected individuals.
Damage to Infrastructure
Uprooted Trees
Strong winds uprooted numerous trees across several districts, leading to road blockages and traffic disruptions. Municipal authorities and emergency response teams were deployed to clear affected routes and restore connectivity.
Power Supply Disruptions
Damage to electrical infrastructure resulted in power outages in several localities. Utility agencies initiated restoration work and deployed teams to repair damaged lines and restore services.
Damage to Buildings
Several residential and commercial properties reported damage, including broken windows, roof damage and waterlogging. Temporary roadside structures and market stalls were also affected by the storm.
Kolkata Faces Disruptions
The storm caused waterlogging and traffic congestion in parts of Kolkata. Public transportation services experienced delays as heavy rainfall affected road conditions and visibility.
Emergency services responded to incidents involving fallen trees, damaged electrical infrastructure and stranded vehicles.
Impact on Air Travel
Adverse weather conditions affected flight operations at Kolkata’s airport. Some flights reportedly experienced delays and operational disruptions due to reduced visibility and challenging weather conditions.
Airport authorities monitored the situation and coordinated with airlines to manage operations safely.
Impact on Rural Areas
Several rural areas also reported damage to agricultural fields, irrigation systems and temporary structures. Local administrations have begun assessing the impact on farming communities and infrastructure.
Emergency Response and Restoration
Government agencies, municipal authorities, police, fire services and disaster-management teams launched restoration and relief operations following the storm.
Efforts include:
- Clearing fallen trees and debris.
- Restoring electricity supply.
- Reopening blocked roads.
- Providing emergency assistance where required.
- Assessing damage to public infrastructure.
Control rooms have been activated in some districts to monitor restoration activities and address public concerns.
Weather Advisory
Meteorological authorities have advised residents to remain alert as weather conditions may continue to produce localized thunderstorms and rainfall in some areas.
Citizens have been advised to:
- Avoid sheltering under trees during storms.
- Follow official weather advisories.
- Report damaged power lines to authorities.
- Exercise caution while travelling during adverse weather conditions.
Ongoing Assessment
Authorities are continuing damage assessments and restoration efforts across affected districts. Officials are working to restore essential services and ensure public safety while evaluating the impact of the storm on infrastructure and local communities.
