Intense heat wave reels Bengal; temp to cross 40oC in Bankura, Purulia, Birbhum

Kolkata: South Bengal will continue to burn as the Regional Meteorological Centre has predicted a rise in the mercury in the next couple of days. People of North Bengal may get temporary respite from the scorching summer heat as rain coupled with thunderstorms will take place in all the five districts.

The weather office on Tuesday predicted no possibility of rainfall in the South Bengal districts till next Friday after which there may be some changes in the weather system. In North Bengal, people will witness moderate to heavy showers in various parts in the next couple of days due to the impact of the Nor'wester.

34-year-old Madhav Mondal from the city has reportedly died due to the heat on Tuesday. The city police have, however, started a case of unnatural death. The cause of death will be confirmed after the autopsy is conducted.

According to the police, Mondal, a resident of Purva Kajipara area in the North 24-Parganas, fell unconscious on the Ultadanga foot over-bridge. He was immediately rushed to ESI Hospital in Manicktala where he died. There was apparently no injury on his body. It is suspected that he might have suffered a sun stroke.

The temperature in places like Bankura, Purulia, West Midnapore, Birbhum may cross over 40 degree Celsius as heat wave may be sweeping through the entire region.

In South Bengal, the temperature may be hovering over 35-38 degree Celsius in the next few days. People will feel tremendous discomfort as the humidity level is expected to be on the higher side.

A moderate-intensity thunderstorm will hit five North Bengal districts along with rain. The storm will not, however, last for a long time. A sudden thundershower coupled with breeze will bring down the temperature giving relief to the people who are under the effect of scorching summer heat for the past few days in North Bengal.

"The temperature in South Bengal districts will go up in the next 72 hours. There is a bleak possibility of rainfall in the city before Friday. The city dwellers will experience sultry weather due to high humidity. North Bengal districts will receive thundershower in the next few days," Deputy Director General of Alipore weather office Sanjib Bandyopadhyay said.

City doctors have issued certain guidelines for the people to fight the increasing level of heat. They have urged people to avoid spicy and restaurant foods in the wake of fluctuating temperature. People are also asked to avoid direct sunlight while on the road. They should wear caps or use umbrella to avoid direct contact of sun rays. The doctors also suggested that people should wear cotton clothes to get relief from the humid condition. City dwellers have also been told not to consume cut fruits on the streets.