Depression moves to Jharkhand, heavy rain alert for western Bengal districts
The depression that brought relentless rain and waterlogging to Kolkata and its neighbourhood has moved towards Jharkhand, bringing some respite to the southern districts while triggering a fresh heavy rain warning for western Bengal, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Tuesday (August 18, 2026).
The weather system, which lay over Gangetic West Bengal, is now progressing westwards and is expected to bring substantial rainfall to Purulia, Bankura, Paschim Bardhaman, Birbhum, Jhargram and Paschim Medinipur till Wednesday morning, the IMD said.
A depression is a low-pressure system with wind speeds of up to 61 kmph. It forms over warm ocean waters and moves inland, often leading to intense spells of rain. The system has been active over the region for the past few days, disrupting normal life in parts of the state.
On Monday (August 17), heavy rain lashed Kolkata and the adjoining Salt Lake area, causing waterlogging on several major roads and leading to severe traffic congestion. Commuters faced long delays as vehicles crawled through flooded streets. The situation improved on Tuesday as the rain eased in the city.
According to IMD data, Asansol in Paschim Bardhaman district recorded 157 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours ending at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, the highest in the state. Suri received 114 mm, Medinipur 109.6 mm, Kalaikunda 94 mm, Diamond Harbour 84 mm, Jhargram 74.4 mm, and Sriniketan 72 mm. Kolkata received 59.8 mm during the same period, while Salt Lake recorded 75.7 mm.
The weather department has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds at one or two places across all south Bengal districts. It has advised residents in the affected areas to remain cautious and follow local advisories.
Meanwhile, the sub-Himalayan districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri are likely to receive heavy rainfall until the morning of August 21. The IMD attributed this to an active monsoon trough and significant moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal.
The monsoon has been vigorous over the region this month. The heavy rains, while essential for agriculture, have also raised concerns about flooding in low-lying areas and damage to infrastructure. District administrations have been asked to keep emergency response teams ready.
Weather officials said the depression is expected to weaken as it moves further inland, but the western districts should prepare for intense spells of rain over the next 24 hours. They also cautioned that rivers in these areas could rise due to the run-off.
The IMD will continue to monitor the system and issue updates. Residents are urged to follow official weather bulletins and avoid unnecessary travel in areas under heavy rain warnings.
