Heavy Rainfall in Kolkata: Flooding, IMD Warnings, and Travel Advisories

Kolkata and nearby areas woke up to chaos after heavy overnight rainfall caused widespread flooding and traffic disruptions. Several parts of the city were submerged under knee-deep water, affecting both residents and commuters. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of more heavy rain in the coming days, making the situation even more concerning.

In this blog, let’s break down the rainfall highlights, affected areas, IMD warnings, and what precautions residents should follow during this extreme weather.

Record Rainfall in Kolkata: Areas Worst Affected

The city experienced heavy showers over a short span of time, which led to waterlogging in several localities. According to official data, some areas recorded alarming levels of rainfall:

• Garia Kamdahari – 332 mm

• Jodhpur Park – 285 mm

• Kalighat – 280 mm

• Ballygunge – 264 mm

The southern and eastern parts of Kolkata were the worst hit, with roads and residential complexes submerged. Vehicles were stuck in traffic for hours, and public transport faced significant delays.

IMD Warnings and Weather Forecast

The IMD has confirmed that a low-pressure area over the northeast Bay of Bengal is responsible for the widespread rain across Kolkata and South Bengal Districts. This weather system is moving northwestwards and is expected to bring more showers over the next few days.

Districts likely to be affected include:

• Purba Medinipur

• Paschim Medinipur

• South 24 Parganas

• Jhargram

• Bankura

In addition, Meteorologists have warned that a fresh low-pressure system may form over the east-central and adjoining north Bay of Bengal around September 25, which could result in another spell of heavy rainfall.

Flooding and Traffic Chaos

• The heavy downpour brought life in Kolkata to a standstill. Major streets, lanes, and underpasses were flooded, leading to traffic jams across the city. 

• Commuters struggled to reach workplaces and schools, while many residential complexes reported water entering basements and ground floors.

• Areas in South Kolkata like Jodhpur Park, Kalighat, and Garia were among the worst affected. 

• Several vehicles were stranded due to knee-deep water, and traffic police had to redirect movement in many stretches.

Air Travel Disruptions

• The heavy rain also had an impact on air travel. Airlines issued advisories to passengers, urging them to check flight status before heading to the airport. Delays and cancellations were reported, especially during the peak morning hours when visibility was poor.

• With more rain expected, travelers are advised to stay updated with airline notifications to avoid last-minute hassles.

Advisory for Residents

Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel. Here are some important safety measures:

• Stay indoors unless travel is urgent.

• Avoid waterlogged areas, such as open drains and electric hazards, which may be hidden under floodwater.

• Check traffic updates before leaving home.

• Keep essential items ready like drinking water, dry food, a torch, and first-aid in case of prolonged waterlogging.

• Monitor IMD alerts for the latest weather updates.

Impact on South Bengal Districts

• While Kolkata is facing immediate flooding, the IMD has also predicted heavy rainfall in adjoining South Bengal districts. Areas like Purba Medinipur, South 24 Parganas, and Jhargram are likely to experience significant rainfall, raising concerns over crop damage and flooding in rural regions.

• Local administrations have been alerted to prepare relief measures in case of worsening conditions.

Risk of More Rain Ahead

• The IMD’s forecast of another low-pressure system around September 25 is worrying. If the system strengthens, it may cause a new spell of heavy showers across Kolkata and nearby districts. 

• Civic bodies are making preparations to tackle possible waterlogging, but residents have been asked to remain alert.

• This could also affect Durga Puja preparations, as pandals and decorations in Kolkata may face challenges due to waterlogging if the rains continue.

How Residents Can Stay Prepared

To minimize inconvenience and risk, residents should take practical steps during this weather:

• Charge mobile phones and keep power banks ready.

• Store food items that do not spoil easily.

• Use public transport cautiously and avoid driving through waterlogged streets.

• Keep emergency numbers handy, including local police, disaster management, and health services.
  
  

Authorities on High Alert

• The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and disaster management teams are working around the clock to pump out excess water and restore traffic flow. 

• Additional staff have been deployed in waterlogging-prone zones, and traffic police are coordinating diversions to ease congestion.

• The State government is monitoring the evolving situation closely, especially with the possibility of another low-pressure system forming in the Bay of Bengal.

Staying Safe During Extreme Weather

• Kolkata’s heavy rainfall has once again highlighted the city’s struggle with waterlogging and traffic disruption. 

• With IMD warnings of more rain ahead, residents must remain alert, follow safety guidelines, and avoid unnecessary risks.

• While authorities are working to manage the flooding, individual precautions can go a long way in ensuring safety during such extreme weather. 

• Staying updated with IMD forecasts and being prepared for emergencies is the best way to tackle these challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much rainfall did Kolkata receive during the latest spell?
Some areas, like Garia Kamdahar, recorded 332 mm, while Jodhpur Park, Kalighat, and Ballygunge saw over 250 mm of rain.

2. Which parts of Kolkata were worst affected?
Southern and eastern localities such as Garia, Jodhpur Park, Kalighat, and Ballygunge were most affected by flooding.

3. Why is Kolkata experiencing such heavy rainfall?
A low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is causing widespread rain in South Bengal, including Kolkata.

4. Will the rainfall continue in the coming days?
Yes. IMD has predicted more rainfall till Wednesday, with another low-pressure system expected around September 25.

5. How is the traffic situation in Kolkata?
Many roads are waterlogged, causing traffic jams and delays. Traffic police have issued diversions in several areas.

6. Are flights being delayed due to the rain?
Yes. Airlines have advised passengers to check flight status as delays and cancellations are possible.

7. Which districts outside Kolkata are expected to be affected?
Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, South 24 Parganas, Jhargram, and Bankura are expected to experience heavy rainfall.

8. What precautions should residents take?
Avoid waterlogged areas, check weather updates, keep essentials ready, and avoid unnecessary travel.

9. How are authorities handling the situation?
KMC and disaster management teams are pumping out water, monitoring traffic, and deploying staff in affected areas.

10. Could the rain affect the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations?
If heavy rain continues, waterlogging may disrupt pandal construction and preparations in Kolkata.