Bengal Weather Update : Western Disturbance to Bring Relief from Cold, Temperature Likely to Rise in Bengal

Kolkata, January 15 Residents of West Bengal may not experience biting cold this winter, as repeated western disturbances have disrupted the flow of cold northerly winds into the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that the temperature is likely to rise again, and even in the Magh month, significant cold weather is not expected.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Regional Meteorological Centre in Alipore, a new western disturbance will become active from Saturday, which will stabilize the weather for the next four to five days. As a result, cold winds from the north will be blocked, leading to a gradual increase in temperature.

Foggy Mornings in Southern and Northern Bengal

The weather forecast indicates that Bankura, Paschim Bardhaman, Birbhum, and Murshidabad in south Bengal may witness light to moderate fog during the early morning hours. Similarly, Kolkata and other nearby districts are also likely to experience light fog.

In north Bengal, however, the impact will be more severe. Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, and North Dinajpur are expected to face dense fog, with visibility dropping to as low as 50 meters in some areas, posing potential risks for travelers.

Temperature Trends and Outlook

Repeated activation of western disturbances has prevented the cold winds from reaching West Bengal, which explains the absence of typical winter chill this season. The IMD suggests that temperatures are unlikely to see a sharp decline until the end of January, meaning that the state may witness a relatively warmer winter.

Even major festive occasions like Christmas, New Year, and Makar Sankranti passed without the usual cold spell, leaving many disappointed by the lack of winter chill. While the minimum temperature may hover around 12-14°C in some parts of the state, no significant drop is anticipated in the coming days.

Cause of Unseasonal Warmth: Western Disturbances

Western disturbances are weather systems originating in the Mediterranean region that travel eastwards, bringing rain and snow to northern India. These systems also block the cold winds coming from the Himalayas. When such disturbances become frequent, as is the case this year, they prevent the northwesterly winds from reaching as far south as Bengal, resulting in milder winters.

This year, western disturbances have been particularly active, limiting the flow of cold air and keeping temperatures higher than normal for this time of year. Meteorologists believe that this pattern is likely to continue for the next few weeks.

Impact on Daily Life and Agriculture

The unusual weather pattern has had mixed effects on daily life and agriculture in West Bengal. While warmer temperatures have provided relief to those who struggle with the cold, farmers who rely on cooler weather for certain crops have expressed concern. Crops like wheat and mustard, which thrive in colder climates, may see a reduction in yield if the current trend persists.

On the brighter side, less severe winter weather has reduced the incidence of cold-related illnesses, especially among the elderly and young children. However, fluctuating temperatures can still lead to respiratory issues, so residents are advised to take precautions.

Travel Advisory

With dense fog expected in parts of north Bengal, travelers are advised to exercise caution, particularly during the early morning and late evening hours. Visibility may be significantly reduced in districts like Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar, making road travel risky. Drivers should use fog lights and maintain a safe distance between vehicles to prevent accidents.

For those traveling by rail or air, delays may occur due to foggy conditions. Passengers are encouraged to stay updated on their travel schedules and plan accordingly.