How Dangerous Is Cyclone Montha for Kolkata? Experts Reveal the Real Threat Behind the Rain Alert
How dangerous is Cyclone Montha for Kolkata becomes a pressing question as heavy rain alerts intensify. This update breaks down expert assessments, expected impact zones, and the real risks residents should prepare for.
Cyclone Montha Triggers Heavy Rainfall Alert in Kolkata has stirred both anxiety and curiosity across the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded warnings of intense downpours, thunder, and possible urban flooding as the storm system hovers close to the Bay of Bengal.
While Kolkata isn’t in the direct line of impact, meteorologists warn that the city could face severe weather disruptions in the next 48 hours.
- Cyclone Montha is driving heavy rainfall and strong winds in South Bengal.
- Kolkata may experience flooding and traffic paralysis between Friday and Saturday.
- Experts say Montha’s indirect impact could be “worse than expected.”
What Is Cyclone Montha and Why Is It Causing Cyclone Montha Triggers Heavy Rainfall Alert in Kolkata?
Cyclone Montha is a tropical storm system formed over the Bay of Bengal in early November 2025. Although it is expected to weaken before landfall, its spiral cloud bands are pushing massive moisture into coastal Bengal, leading to a significant rainfall surge across Kolkata and neighboring districts.
Meteorologist Dr. Soumya Banerjee, from the Regional Meteorological Centre in Alipore, explains:
“Even a weakened cyclone can create intense rainfall zones hundreds of kilometers away. Kolkata sits right in the path of Montha’s moisture stream — that’s why we’re expecting torrential rain despite no direct landfall.”
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Latest Weather Update: What’s Happening Now
According to IMD’s latest forecast:
- Kolkata and Howrah are under a yellow rainfall alert until Saturday evening.
- Coastal districts like South 24 Parganas, East Medinipur, and Diamond Harbour are under an orange alert for very heavy rainfall.
- North Bengal (Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri) faces a red alert for landslides and hill runoff.
- Wind speeds may reach 50–60 km/h near the coast with rough sea conditions expected.
The low-pressure remnant of Cyclone Montha continues to move northwestward, interacting with easterly winds — a combination known to cause “secondary cyclonic rain.”
Kolkata’s Rainfall Forecast: Timeline & Intensity
| Day | Expected Condition | Rainfall Estimate | Wind Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday | Scattered showers | 10–20 mm | 25–30 km/h |
| Friday | Continuous heavy rain | 60–80 mm | 40–50 km/h |
| Saturday | Intense downpour peaks | 100+ mm (localized flooding) | 50–60 km/h |
| Sunday | Moderate spells, tapering | 15–30 mm | 20 km/h |
Expert Insight – Dr. Rina Chakraborty (IMD Meteorologist):
“Kolkata’s saturated soil and poor drainage will magnify Montha’s effects. Even if rainfall doesn’t break records, waterlogging and power outages are likely.”
Why It Matters: What Makes Cyclone Montha’s Rainfall So Risky?
While Kolkata often faces monsoon rains, Montha brings a complex threat:
- Slow-moving system — prolongs rainfall and causes flooding.
- High humidity trap — limits evaporation and keeps conditions sticky, worsening discomfort.
- Urban drainage overload — drains are already choked from recent showers.
- Flash-flood potential — especially in low-lying areas like Tollygunge, Behala, and Topsia.
Urban climate researcher Prof. Arindam Saha from Jadavpur University remarks:
“Cyclone Montha shows how urban vulnerability, not storm strength, defines disaster. Even indirect cyclonic systems can paralyze Kolkata if infrastructure fails.”
Comparing Montha With Past Cyclones in Bengal
| Cyclone Name | Year | Impact on Kolkata | Peak Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amphan | 2020 | Direct hit; massive damage | 150 mm |
| Yaas | 2021 | Coastal flooding; moderate city rain | 70 mm |
| Remal | 2023 | Heavy showers; power cuts | 85 mm |
| Montha | 2025 (forecast) | Indirect impact; potential flooding | 90–120 mm (est.) |
Meteorologists note that while Montha’s wind speed is lower than Amphan or Yaas, its rainfall potential is higher due to prolonged convection.
Expert Opinion: The Science Behind Montha’s Rainfall Pattern
Cyclone Montha is a “rain-centric” system, meaning its main threat is precipitation rather than storm surge.
According to Dr. Amitava Bhattacharya, senior climatologist:
“This storm is driven by low vertical wind shear — ideal for cloud growth and sustained rainfall. It’s less destructive in wind but more persistent in rain. That’s often what cripples cities.”
He also adds that Kolkata’s heat island effect can intensify convective cells locally, leading to unpredictable bursts of rain.
Practical Takeaways: What Should Citizens Do?
- Avoid unnecessary travel on Friday and Saturday. Metro services may face waterlogging-related delays.
- Charge electronics and store drinking water. Intermittent power cuts are likely.
- Stay away from open drains, trees, and hoardings. Strong gusts could dislodge structures.
- Stock basic groceries and medicines. Supply delays may occur during peak rain.
- Follow verified weather advisories only. Avoid misinformation on social media.
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FAQs
Q1. What is the IMD warning for Kolkata due to Cyclone Montha?
A yellow-to-orange rainfall alert is in effect, predicting heavy rain from Friday to Saturday.
Q2. Will Cyclone Montha make landfall in West Bengal?
No direct landfall in Kolkata. The cyclone is expected to weaken into a depression near the Bay coast but will still cause widespread rain.
Q3. Which areas in Kolkata are most flood-prone?
Behala, Garia, Topsia, Dhapa, and EM Bypass remain at highest risk due to poor drainage.
Q4. How long will the rain last?
Rain is expected to continue until Sunday morning, with intensity peaking late Friday.
Key Takeaways
- Cyclone Montha’s indirect impact could rival past storms in terms of rainfall and waterlogging.
- Experts warn of urban flooding and drainage failure across major Kolkata neighborhoods.
- Citizens should stay alert for official IMD bulletins and avoid travel during peak rainfall hours.
- The storm shows how climate extremes are intensifying seasonal weather in urban India.
Conclusion
The heavy rainfall alert due to Cyclone Montha in Kolkata isn’t a routine forecast — it’s a test of the city’s preparedness against intensifying weather systems.
Experts agree that Montha’s danger lies in its deceptive calm: a storm that may never make landfall yet could bring the city to a standstill.
Stay indoors, stay alert, and prepare for a wet and challenging weekend ahead.
