West Bengal Shivers in Bone-Chilling Cold
The winter chill has intensified across West Bengal, with the minimum temperature in Darjeeling plunging to 4 degrees Celsius. Kolkata, the state capital, recorded its coldest day of the season at 11 degrees Celsius. The northerly winds have swept across the state, causing a drop in temperatures everywhere.
Cold Conditions to Persist
The Meteorological Department has predicted that the weather will remain dry for the next few days, with the possibility of the minimum temperature dropping further. A dense fog warning has been issued for all districts of north Bengal, with visibility expected to drop to between 199 metres and 50 metres.
Rain and Snowfall Forecast in Darjeeling
The weather office has also forecast rain and snowfall in Darjeeling between January 1 and 2. This could further intensify the cold weather in the region. Meanwhile, rain is also likely in Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri, and Kalimpong districts.
Cold Weather Across the State
Besides Darjeeling, several other districts in West Bengal have also experienced a significant drop in temperature. Sriniketan in Birbhum district recorded 6.5 degrees Celsius, making it the second-coldest place in the state on Wednesday. The minimum temperature in Kalyani, Suri, Asansol, and other districts also dropped below 10 degrees Celsius.
Implications for North East India and Beyond
The cold weather in West Bengal could have implications for the North East region, which shares a border with the state. The region is already experiencing colder-than-normal temperatures, and further drops could lead to hardships for the local population. The North East region is known for its fragile ecosystem, and extreme weather conditions could have adverse effects on biodiversity.
Looking Ahead
As the winter season progresses, it is crucial for authorities to take necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the people in West Bengal and the North East region. This includes providing adequate shelter, food, and healthcare facilities for those affected by the cold weather. It is also essential to monitor the situation closely and take prompt action in case of any emergencies.