Kolkata, 26 May : Cyclonic storm Rumal, brewing in the Bay of Bengal, is expected to hit the coastal areas of West Bengal around midnight tonight. The regional headquarters of the Meteorological Department at Alipore, in a statement issued on Sunday morning, said that due to its effect, 4.2 mm of rain was recorded in the capital Kolkata on Saturday. However, there was no drop in temperature. The minimum temperature was recorded at 27.3 degrees Celsius, one degree above normal, and the maximum temperature was recorded at 37 degrees Celsius, two degrees above normal.
Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Expected:
According to the department, there will be rain throughout the day today due to the effect of the cyclone. In the capital Kolkata, 2 to 3 centimeters of rain per hour can be recorded and winds will blow at a speed of 70 to 80 kilometers per hour. This raises the possibility of loss of life and property.
Areas of Concern:
Apart from Kolkata, the coastal districts of West Bengal – Howrah, Hooghly, North and South 24 Parganas and East and West Medinipur – are most at risk of damage. Heavy rains accompanied by strong storms with speeds of up to 135 kilometers per hour can occur in these areas.
Rescue Teams Deployed:
Following the department’s warning, teams of the State Disaster Relief Force (SDRF) along with the NDRF have reached Bengal for rescue operations. 12 NDRF teams have reached West Bengal. The Indian Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard are also geared up for relief and rescue. Kolkata Police has also set up a control room. A control room has also been started in the state secretariat Nabanna.