Heavy rainfall impacted Kolkata and several nearby districts in south Bengal on the morning of June 19, 2026, leading to significant waterlogging and traffic congestion. The incessant downpour inundated various roads in central and northern Kolkata, Salt Lake, and Sector V, causing delays during peak office hours and leaving many commuters stranded. Officials from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) reported multiple instances of waterlogging, though they indicated that the situation was not deemed severe.

To address the water accumulation, civic authorities activated pumping stations and drainage systems while deploying personnel to monitor the most affected areas. An official from KMC stated, “Water is expected to recede once the rain stops. Pumping stations are functioning and civic teams are on alert.” This coordinated effort aimed to minimise the disruption caused by the heavy rains.

Residential areas were also impacted, with reports of water entering homes and schools in low-lying regions. In the neighbouring Howrah district, classes at a school in Bally were suspended due to rainwater flooding several classrooms. A teacher noted that preparations for the upcoming International Day of Yoga were hindered since students could not access waterlogged facilities.

Preparedness Ahead of Yoga Day Celebrations

As the International Day of Yoga approaches, scheduled for Sunday, officials increased their readiness in anticipation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kolkata’s Red Road. Civic authorities have established a dedicated control room and placed emergency response teams on standby, prepared for any further developments resulting from the adverse weather.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported significant rainfall figures, including 43.6 mm recorded at Alipore between 8:30 am and 11:30 am, while Dum Dum experienced 58 mm, and Salt Lake recorded 80 mm over the same duration. These measurements highlight the intensifying effects of the rain in the region.

Northern Bengal Under Monitoring for Flood Risks

In Northern Bengal, growing concerns emerged as persistent rainfall in the hills led to rising water levels in the Teesta River. The Irrigation Department issued a yellow alert for unprotected riverbank areas, particularly from Domohoni to the Bangladesh border. This raised alarm bells for residents living along the riverbanks as they were advised to remain cautious amid fears of potential flooding and erosion.

Heavy rainfall recorded in Sikkim, Bhutan, and the Darjeeling hills has contributed to the rising water levels in the Teesta and other rivers across the area. The IMD has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall across district areas, including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar, in the coming days. Isolated locations in Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar may experience extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 20 cm, alongside possible thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds.

Authorities are actively monitoring river conditions and have urged residents in low-lying and vulnerable areas to adhere to official advisories as the weather pattern is expected to persist throughout the weekend. The situation remains fluid, with emergency measures in place to safeguard the community and mitigate any potential disasters.

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