Mon Feb 23 01:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Bengal Braces for Light to Moderate Rain as Depression Forms in Bay of Bengal

The Story:

West Bengal is anticipating a spell of wet weather over the next 48 hours as a depression forms in the Bay of Bengal. While a major storm is not expected, light to moderate rainfall is predicted across several districts, including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri, where a separate Western Disturbance is also expected to bring scattered showers. The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow warning for potential thunderstorms early next week, cautioning about the impact on potato harvesting and the risk of lightning strikes, particularly in open areas.

Rainfall is expected to commence on Monday, February 23, 2026, affecting southern districts such as East and West Midnapore, Jhargram, South 24 Parganas, and Bankura. By Tuesday, the rain activity is forecast to extend to Kolkata, Howrah, and Hooghly. Despite the impending rain, minimum temperatures are expected to remain stable across the region.

Key Points:

  • A depression in the Bay of Bengal will bring light to moderate rain to West Bengal.
  • Rainfall is expected to begin on Monday, February 23, 2026, in southern districts and extend to Kolkata by Tuesday.
  • A yellow warning has been issued for thunderstorms, with potential impact on potato harvesting and lightning risks.
  • Minimum temperatures are expected to remain stable despite the rain.
  • A separate Western Disturbance will affect the hilly areas of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri.

Key Takeaways:

  • West Bengal residents, particularly farmers and those in open areas, should be prepared for thunderstorms and light to moderate rainfall early next week.
  • The India Meteorological Department is closely monitoring the situation, and no major storm is currently anticipated.
  • The combination of a depression in the Bay of Bengal and a Western Disturbance is contributing to the expected rainfall across the region.

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