The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a red warning—the highest level in its colour‑coded alert system—for the South 24 Parganas and Purba Medinipur districts of West Bengal. The alert follows the approach of a low‑pressure area that has intensified over the Bay of Bengal and is expected to bring heavy rainfall to the West Bengal‑Odisha coastline.
The IMD’s bulletin described the system as a “well‑marked low pressure” moving westward at about 12 km per hour. Forecast models project that the disturbance will reach the coast within 24 hours, with precipitation totals of 150 mm to 250 mm in the warned districts and the potential for localized flooding and landslides. The agency also warned of strong gusty winds and a surge in river levels that could affect low‑lying areas.
State officials in Kolkata have begun pre‑emptive measures, including the activation of disaster response teams and the opening of relief shelters in vulnerable villages. The West Bengal Disaster Management Department has urged residents to stay indoors, avoid water‑logged roads, and cooperate with local authorities during rescue operations.
Analysis: The red alert underscores the increasing frequency of extreme weather events linked to the warming Indian Ocean. While the IMD’s warning system has improved in recent years, the rapid intensification of the Bay of Bengal low‑pressure system highlights challenges in forecasting and timely dissemination of alerts to remote communities. Coordination between state disaster agencies and local governments will be critical to mitigate flood damage and protect lives, especially in densely populated districts such as South 24 Parganas, which have historically faced severe monsoon‑related losses.
Sources
– The Hindu, “West Bengal: IMD issues red alert for heavy rains as low pressure develops over Bay of Bengal,” https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/west-bengal/west-bengal-imd-issues-red-alert-for-heavy-rains-as-low-pressure-develops-over-bay-of-bengal/article71182234.ece
Story synopsis gathered from: The Hindu – National — source
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