Kolkata Rain Updates – Forecast, Alerts and Safety Tips
If you live in or travel to Kolkata, you know the monsoon can turn a sunny day into a flood in minutes. The good news is you don’t have to be caught off guard. Below you’ll find the most recent rain outlook, what the alert levels mean, and easy steps to stay safe when the clouds open up.
Current Alerts and Forecast
As of today, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has placed Kolkata under an orange rain alert. This means heavy showers are likely within the next 24‑48 hours, with the highest rainfall expected between 2 pm and 6 pm. Temperatures will stay in the high 20s °C, making the humidity feel even stronger.
Rainfall predictions for the next three days are:
- Day 1: 30‑50 mm, chances of brief thunderstorms.
- Day 2: 50‑80 mm, stronger gusts and possible water‑logging in low‑lying areas.
- Day 3: 20‑40 mm, lighter showers but still enough to keep roads slippery.
These numbers line up with the wider northern Bengal monsoon pattern, where a western disturbance is adding extra moisture. If you’re planning outdoor activities—like a walk along the Hooghly River or a visit to the Botanical Garden—check the hourly updates on the IMD website or a reliable weather app.
How to Stay Safe During Heavy Rain
Heavy rain can create hazards quickly, so a few simple habits go a long way:
- Carry an umbrella or raincoat. A compact, wind‑proof umbrella saves you from sudden downpours without getting flipped inside out.
- Avoid low‑lying streets. Water can rise fast on roads near the river or near old drainage channels.
- Know the nearest shelters. Community centers, schools and larger shops often open their doors during floods. Keep a list on your phone.
- Secure electronics. If you work from home, move laptops and phones away from windows where water could splash in.
- Stay informed. Sign up for SMS alerts from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation. They send real‑time warnings about water‑logging and road closures.
If you drive, slow down and keep headlights on even during light rain. Standing water can hide potholes, and hydro‑planing is a real risk on slick city streets. If you see a flash flood warning, pull over safely and wait it out.
For pedestrians, wear shoes with good grip. Wet tiles in older markets can become dangerously slippery. A quick tip: a small piece of sand in the sole of your shoe gives extra traction without looking odd.
Lastly, if you have a garden or balcony, clear gutters and drains before the next big spell. A blocked drain turns a moderate shower into a backyard river in minutes.
By keeping an eye on the forecast and following these easy steps, you’ll stay one step ahead of Kolkata rain. Remember, the monsoon is a seasonal gift—just be ready for the splash it brings.
Kolkata rain: Depression drenches city, waterlogging and traffic snarls return with the monsoon
A weather depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified monsoon showers in Kolkata, causing waterlogging in low-lying pockets and long traffic delays. The IMD expects intermittent heavy rain and gusty winds into early September. Civic teams ran pumps and cleared drains, but high tide and back-to-back showers slowed drainage. Commuters faced detours, slower public transport, and longer travel times.