Heatwave hits South Bengal ahead of April 19 polls

• Severe heatwave grips southern West Bengal as temperatures soar above 40 degrees Celsius in several districts
• IMD warns of escalating heatwave conditions over the next few days, contrasting with rain and thundershowers expected in north Bengal
• Voters in south Bengal face challenges amid scorching temperatures ahead of the first phase of Lok Sabha elections

As West Bengal prepares for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections on April 19, several districts in southern parts of the state grapple with severe heatwave conditions. With the maximum day temperature soaring to 42.8 degrees Celsius in Panagarh, West Burdwan district, eight degrees above normal, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues warnings of escalating heatwave conditions in the region over the next few days. Meanwhile, contrasting weather patterns are expected in north Bengal, where rain and thundershowers are forecasted.

The IMD's forecast highlights the likelihood of heatwave conditions persisting in districts across south Bengal, including East Burdwan, West Burdwan, Jhargram, Purulia, Bankura, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Birbhum, Murshidabad, North 24 Parganas, and South 24 Parganas. Despite the scorching temperatures recorded in various parts of the state, including Midnapore and Hooghly, the IMD refrains from officially declaring a heatwave. The contrasting weather patterns pose challenges for voters and campaigners alike as the state gears up for the crucial first phase of elections in three north Bengal districts.