Kolkata Pounded by Heavy Rains: Trees Uprooted, Traffic Snarled as IMD Warns of More

Heavy monsoon rains lashed parts of Kolkata on Monday, causing widespread disruption as trees were uprooted and traffic came to a standstill in several areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast more rainfall across West Bengal over the coming days.

The downpour, accompanied by lightning and strong winds, swept through Kolkata and neighbouring districts in the afternoon. The Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata said the southwest monsoon has become active over the state due to favourable wind patterns and a strong moisture flow from the Bay of Bengal.

For South Bengal, the IMD has predicted light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds over the next few days. Districts including East and West Burdwan, Birbhum, Murshidabad, Nadia, Purulia and Bankura are likely to experience thunderstorms with wind speeds reaching 40-50 kmph.

Officials were seen clearing branches of uprooted trees from roads in the city, as authorities urged residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during the inclement weather. The rains, while causing temporary inconvenience, are crucial for the region's agriculture and water supply.