Kolkata paralysed by incessant rain, depression moves to Jharkhand

Incessant rain from a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal severely disrupted normal life in Kolkata and adjoining areas on Monday, August 17, 2026. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported Haldia recorded the highest rainfall of 134 mm in 24 hours till 8.30 a.m. on Monday, while Digha received 113 mm and Diamond Harbour 112 mm. Waterlogging on major thoroughfares in Kolkata, Salt Lake, and Howrah caused traffic snarls, and commuters, including schoolchildren and office-goers, faced difficulties due to reduced public transport.

The depression moved towards Jharkhand on Tuesday, August 18, bringing heavy rain to western districts. Asansol in Paschim Bardhaman recorded the state's highest rainfall of 157 mm in 24 hours till Tuesday morning, while Kolkata received 59.8 mm and Salt Lake 75.7 mm. The IMD forecast extremely heavy rain for Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, and Bankura on Monday, with very heavy downpour expected across other south Bengal districts. Sub-Himalayan districts are likely to receive heavy rainfall until August 21 due to an active monsoon trough.