Cyclone Montha’s Remnants Bring Heavy Rainfall to Bengal

The severe cyclonic storm Montha has significantly weakened after making landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast, transitioning into a depression as it moves further inland. However, the residual moisture and circulation of the system are poised to trigger a prolonged spell of heavy rain across West Bengal, with the downpour expected to last until Saturday in several districts.

Widespread Rainfall Alert

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rain and thundershowers, impacting both South and North Bengal.

• South Bengal: The coastal and southern districts, including South 24 Parganas, Purba and Paschim Medinipur, and Jhargram, experienced initial heavy showers. The rain zone is expected to shift, bringing heavy rainfall (7-11 cm) to interior districts like Purulia, Birbhum, Murshidabad, and Paschim Bardhaman in the coming days. Kolkata and its adjoining areas are also likely to witness light to moderate rain and thunderstorms, with conditions easing gradually from Saturday.
• North Bengal: The northern parts of the state are preparing for the strongest impact. The rain intensity is projected to peak on Friday, October 31, with the IMD issuing a Yellow Alert for heavy rain and an Orange Alert for heavy to very heavy rain over districts like Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, Darjeeling, and Alipurduar. This rainfall will be accompanied by strong, gusty winds.

Advisory and Safety Measures

Authorities have issued several advisories to mitigate potential risks.

• Fishermen have been strictly warned not to venture into the sea along and off the West Bengal coast until at least Thursday, due to rough sea conditions.
• The IMD has cautioned residents about the possibility of waterlogging in low-lying urban areas, traffic congestion, and lightning strikes. People are advised to take necessary precautions and avoid sheltering under trees or near electric poles.
• In agricultural regions, especially in the North, the state’s agriculture department has advised farmers to quickly harvest and secure ripe crops to minimize damage from the upcoming heavy downpour.

The weather system is expected to stabilize and clear across Bengal from Sunday onwards, marking the end of the widespread cyclonic influence.