Bengal Prepares for Rain as Cyclone Arnab Approaches Andhra Coast; Fishermen Warned to Stay Ashore

The restriction will remain in force until further instructions, the weather office said on Monday.

The India Meteorological Department is monitoring the movement and intensity of Cyclone Arnab, which is forecast to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast. While West Bengal is not expected to face a direct hit, the system could bring fresh spells of rain to several districts.

Rainfall Expected to Intensify Across South Bengal

According to a Meteorological Department official, coastal and adjoining districts of south Bengal, including Kolkata, may receive light to moderate rainfall on Tuesday and Wednesday. Rainfall activity is expected to increase later in the week, with heavy showers likely in isolated areas.

South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore and Jhargram are among the districts that could experience increased rainfall on Thursday, the official said.

The weather system’s indirect influence is also expected to bring gusty winds to parts of the state, although the overall impact is forecast to be limited compared with areas closer to the cyclone’s projected landfall.

North Bengal May Also Receive Heavy Showers

Wet weather is also forecast for parts of north Bengal towards the end of the week.

Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong and Alipurduar may receive light to moderate rain on Thursday and Friday, with heavy rainfall possible at isolated locations.

The weather office is continuing to monitor the cyclone’s track and intensity as it approaches the Andhra Pradesh coastline.

Strong Winds Forecast Along Andhra Coast

The cyclone is expected to produce strong winds along the Andhra Pradesh coast and neighbouring areas. According to the forecast, wind speeds could reach 115–125 kmph, with gusts potentially touching 140 kmph.

The fishing restriction in West Bengal has been imposed as a precaution amid the developing weather conditions over the Bay of Bengal.

Kolkata Records Humid Conditions

Meanwhile, Kolkata recorded a maximum temperature of 31.05 degrees Celsius on Sunday, marginally below the seasonal normal by 0.02 degrees. The minimum temperature was 23.04 degrees Celsius, around 0.04 degrees above normal.

Relative humidity stood at 89 per cent in the morning and 50 per cent in the evening, reflecting continued humid conditions in the city.

Residents and fishermen are advised to follow official weather updates as the cyclone’s movement and its potential impact on the region are assessed.