Kolkata Weather: Durga Puja Celebrations Hit by Heavy Rainfall and Flooding
Excessive Torrential Rain in Kolkata, Image: AI-Skymet
Kolkata has been rattled by a heavy spell of rainfall, with the Alipore Observatory reporting 251 mm of rain in the last 24 hours. Nearby Dum Dum Airport logged about 63 mm, Howrah saw 78 mm, and Salt Lake recorded roughly 227 mm. The relentless deluge has claimed seven lives in rain-related incidents, underscoring the severity of the situation. Flooding at the Kolkata airport led to flight cancellations and diversions, disrupting travel plans for both travelers and locals.
The heavy rain has also impacted Durga Puja festivities. Celebrations are continuing, but outdoor activities and street processions have slowed. Many residents are adapting by arranging shelter and shifting events indoors to maintain both safety and the festive spirit.
Traffic and public transport have been severely affected. Waterlogged streets, disrupted bus routes, and delays in trains and flights have created widespread congestion, bringing the city’s pace to a crawl. Day-to-day activities across Kolkata and neighboring areas are largely on hold or operating with major constraints, as authorities monitor water levels and mobilize resources for relief and restoration.
The intense rainfall is linked to a low-pressure area over the coastal region of Gangetic West Bengal, extending toward North Odisha and the Northwest Bay of Bengal. Moist monsoon flow interacting with this system has intensified rain across the region.
Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected to persist through the remainder of September 23, with the heaviest downpours likely in parts of West Bengal, Odisha, and Southeast Jharkhand. After this peak, rainfall activity is expected to taper as the system weakens. A cautious easing in rainfall is anticipated, though isolated downpours may continue. Urban flooding risks and waterlogging in low-lying areas will remain a concern.
As Kolkata endures this spell of heavy rainfall, officials continue to stress safety and preparedness, while residents adapt to disrupted routines and press on with Durga Puja celebrations, showing resilience in the face of adversity.
Daily Forecast: Weather update and forecast for September 24 across India
