West Bengal experiences a rapid rise in temperature on 18 May 2026, as humid conditions and severe summer heat persist over large parts of South Bengal. Districts such as Kolkata, Howrah, Purulia, Paschim Medinipur, Bankura, Birbhum, Hooghly, and Murshidabad are witnessing uncomfortable day conditions, while parts of North Bengal are expected to receive rain and thunderstorms. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also warned of lightning and gusty winds in several districts in the next 24 hours.
What Is the Weather Today? Live Temperature & IMD Updates
The combination of high humidity and rising mercury levels has pushed the “feels like” temperature significantly higher across South Bengal. Kolkata and the surrounding districts are expected to witness hot and sticky weather throughout the day.
| City/District | Max Temp | Min Temp | Weather Condition | Sunrise | Sunset | Moonrise | Moonset |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kolkata | 38°C | 29°C | Hot & Humid | 4:57 AM | 6:08 PM | 12:47 AM | 11:39 AM |
| Howrah | 37°C | 28°C | Humid Heat | 4:58 AM | 6:08 PM | 12:48 AM | 11:40 AM |
| Purulia | 41°C | 27°C | Severe Heatwave | 5:03 AM | 6:10 PM | 12:53 AM | 11:46 AM |
| Paschim Medinipur | 39°C | 28°C | Hot & Dry | 5:01 AM | 6:11 PM | 12:51 AM | 11:44 AM |
| Bankura | 40°C | 27°C | Heatwave Conditions | 5:02 AM | 6:10 PM | 12:52 AM | 11:45 AM |
| Durgapur | 39°C | 28°C | Hot with Gusty Winds | 5:00 AM | 6:09 PM | 12:49 AM | 11:42 AM |
| Siliguri | 33°C | 24°C | Cloudy with Rain Chances | 4:48 AM | 6:01 PM | 12:36 AM | 11:28 AM |
| Darjeeling | 21°C | 14°C | Rain & Thunderstorms | 4:46 AM | 5:58 PM | 12:34 AM | 11:24 AM |
According to IMD Kolkata, North Bengal districts, including Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, and Alipurduar, are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph. South Bengal districts may remain mostly dry and humid, although isolated thunderstorm activity cannot be ruled out in Nadia, Birbhum, and North 24 Parganas.
Yesterday (17 May 2026) vs Today (18 May 2026) Weather Comparison: Which Cities Saw Rain, Heatwave, or Sudden Changes?
The weather turned noticeably from Sunday to Monday in various parts of the state.
| City | 17 May Weather | 18 May Weather | Major Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kolkata | Partly Cloudy, 35°C | Hot & Humid, 38°C | Temperature Rise |
| Howrah | Humid with Clouds | Sticky Heat | Higher Humidity |
| Purulia | Dry Heat | Severe Heatwave | Extreme Heat Increase |
| Paschim Medinipur | Warm with Wind | Hot & Dry | Reduced Cloud Cover |
| Darjeeling | Heavy Rain | Thunderstorms Continue | Persistent Rainfall |
| Jalpaiguri | Rain & Gusty Winds | Rain Alert Continues | Wet Conditions Persist |
| Nadia | Isolated Rain | Thunderstorm Chances | Lightning Risk |
How Will Weather Impact Flights, Trains, Traffic & Daily Life? City-Wise Travel Advisory
Normal life in many districts is likely to be affected due to the prevailing heatwave and humidity. High humidity and heat stress may cause discomfort for commuters in Kolkata and Howrah during afternoon peak hours. Metro stations, buses and local trains are likely to be crowded as people avoid walking outdoors during peak sunlight.
In western districts like Purulia, Bankura and Paschim Medinipur, prolonged outdoor exposure can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion. Rain, poor visibility and gusty winds may cause temporary traffic disruptions in the North Bengal districts, including Darjeeling and Siliguri.
Travel Advisory for Passengers by Rail & Road
- Carry Water & Avoid Direct Sun Exposure
- Expect Possible Delays During Thunderstorms in North Bengal
- Avoid Unnecessary Afternoon Travel in Heatwave-Hit Districts
- Stay Updated with Local IMD Advisories
What Are the IMD Weather Alerts Today? Rain, Heatwave & Storm Warnings Explained
The IMD has issued several weather advisories for West Bengal on 18 May 2026.
North Bengal: Thunderstorms likely with lightning, Gusty winds up to 40-50 kmph, Heavy rain in isolated districts, Possible reduction in visibility and traffic congestion.
South Bengal: Likely to continue hot and humid conditions, Heatwave-like conditions in western districts, Isolated thunderstorm activity possible in some districts.
Districts under significant heat stress include: Purulia, Bankura, Paschim Medinipur, and Birbhum.
Districts under thunderstorm alert include: Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, North 24 Parganas
What Is the 15-Day Weather Forecast? City-Wise Rainfall, Temperature & Trend Analysis
Weather models suggest that West Bengal may continue witnessing contrasting weather patterns over the next two weeks.
| Region | Forecast Trend | Temperature Trend | Rainfall Chances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kolkata & Howrah | Hot & Humid | 37-39°C | Low to Moderate |
| Purulia & Bankura | Heatwave Conditions | 40-42°C | Very Low |
| Paschim Medinipur | Dry Heat | 38-40°C | Low |
| North Bengal Hills | Frequent Rain | 18-25°C | High |
| Jalpaiguri & Alipurduar | Thunderstorms | 28-32°C | High |
| Coastal Bengal | Humid & Cloudy | 34-36°C | Moderate |
Meteorologists expect temperatures across South Bengal to remain above normal for the next several days before pre-monsoon showers potentially bring temporary relief later this week. North Bengal is expected to continue receiving periodic thunderstorms and moderate rainfall.
ALSO READ: Weather Update Today 18 May 2026: Bengaluru Forecast With IMD Insights
Harshita is a journalist and digital content writer specializing in breaking news, current affairs, travel, education, and trending stories. She is focused on delivering accurate, timely, and engaging content with a strong emphasis on clarity and audience relevance.
