Early monsoon to soak Bengal today: IMD issues red alert till May 31, warns of 'possible damage'

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the southwest monsoon will arrive in West Bengal earlier than usual, with its onset expected on May 28.

A low-pressure system has formed over the northwest Bay of Bengal, near the Odisha coast, The Indian Express reported. This weather system is likely to get stronger and bring heavy rainfall to many parts of West Bengal till May 31. The met department has issued a red alert for the state, warning of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds during this period.

"Light to moderate rainfall with isolated heavy rainfall is likely to commence on May 28 over coastal areas of West Bengal," the IMD bulletin said.

The monsoon also arrived early in Kerala this year, reaching the state on May 24, eight days before the usual June 1 date. This is the earliest it has arrived in Kerala since 2009.

In South Bengal, the department has advised the people to prepare for light to moderate rain and thunderstorms with winds of 30–40 kmph till May 31. Rainfall is expected to spread to North 24 Parganas, Paschim Medinipur, and Howrah on May 28, according to the Indian Express report.

The heaviest rain is expected on May 29 and 30. Areas like Purba and Paschim Bardhaman, Bankura, Hooghly, and parts of Medinipur and South 24 Parganas may receive 7–20 cm of rain. Coastal areas may see wind speeds rise to 40–50 kmph, while Kolkata and nearby districts could experience gusts up to 40 kmph.

In North Bengal, the weather will worsen from May 29. Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar may see very heavy to extremely heavy rain, especially on May 30. Hill areas like Darjeeling are also on alert, with the risk of rain continuing till June 1.

Authorities have warned of possible damage to crops, waterlogging in low-lying areas, traffic disruptions, and lightning strikes. In North Bengal's hills, landslides and fog may reduce visibility, the report said.

The sea will also be rough from May 27 to 31, with wind speeds of 35–45 kmph. Fishermen are advised not to venture into deep sea areas during this time.