<p>Today, a new weather system developing over the Bay of Bengal is expected to bring light to moderate rain & thunderstorms to West Bengal, including Kolkata. The weather office has also issued heavy rain alert for several districts in South Bengal.</p><img><p>The forecast for August 23, 2026, indicates a strong possibility of light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms across West Bengal, including Kolkata. A new weather system over the Bay of Bengal has activated the monsoon trough, triggering rainfall across the region.</p><img><p>Kolkata’s maximum temperature is expected to hover between 33°C and 35°C, while the minimum temperature is likely to remain around 27°C to 28°C. The sky is expected to remain partly to fully cloudy throughout the day.</p><img><p>The Alipore weather office has forecast light to moderate thunderstorms in Kolkata. Rainfall intensity is most likely to increase between 12 PM and 4 PM, with the probability of rain rising to around 60% during this period.</p><img><p>Relative humidity is expected to remain high, ranging between 80% and 90%. Even if rainfall is limited, the high humidity could make conditions feel extremely muggy and uncomfortable.</p><img><p>Parts of South 24 Parganas and East Medinipur could receive heavy rainfall, with a yellow alert issued for these districts. Other areas, including North 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, Purulia and Nadia, are also likely to experience scattered thunderstorms.</p><img><p>Coastal districts could experience temporary gusty winds during the day. Meanwhile, the hilly districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar are expected to receive light to moderate rainfall.</p><img><p>Authorities have reiterated their warning to fishermen due to rough sea conditions in the North Bay of Bengal and along the West Bengal-Odisha coast. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the deep sea on August 23 and 24.</p><img><p>Wind speeds are expected to range between 35 and 45 km/h, with gusts potentially reaching 55 km/h. Residents are advised to remain cautious while travelling and carry an umbrella as rain and thunderstorms are likely across Kolkata and parts of South Bengal.</p>