Nor'wester Season in East India: What to Expect

 Nor'wester Season in East India: What to Expect

The Nor'wester season, locally known as ‘Kalbaisakhi’ in Bengal and surrounding regions, is a crucial weather phenomenon in East India. Typically occurring between March and May, these violent thunderstorms bring sudden squalls, heavy rain, and occasional hail, significantly impacting daily life, agriculture, and infrastructure.

What is Nor’wester?

Nor’westers are convective storms that develop due to intense surface heating and moisture-laden winds. These storms are common in the states of West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Assam. The collision of warm, moist air from the Bay of Bengal with dry, hot air from the northwest triggers these intense weather systems.

Weather Characteristics

• Thunderstorms & Strong Winds: Wind speeds during Nor’wester storms can reach up to 80-100 km/h, causing damage to trees, power lines, and weak structures.
• Heavy Rainfall & Hailstorms: Short but intense showers provide relief from rising temperatures, but hailstorms can damage crops.
• Lightning Strikes: East India experiences a high frequency of lightning-related fatalities during this period, particularly in rural areas.

Impact on Agriculture

For farmers, Nor’westers are a double-edged sword. While the rain helps in pre-monsoon irrigation, the accompanying strong winds and hail can severely damage standing crops such as wheat, mango, and vegetables. Proper planning, like early harvesting and installing windbreakers, can mitigate losses.

Effects on Daily Life & Infrastructure

• Power Disruptions: Strong winds often lead to electricity outages by toppling power lines.
• Transportation Delays: Flights, trains, and road travel can be affected due to reduced visibility and storm damage.
• Urban Disruptions: Waterlogging in low-lying areas, tree falls, and damage to old buildings are common in cities.

Safety Tips During Nor’wester Season

1. Seek Shelter: Avoid staying in open fields or under tall trees during thunderstorms.
2. Stay Indoors: Lightning is a major risk, so staying inside and avoiding electronic appliances is advisable.
3. Secure Loose Objects: Ensure that outdoor items like hoardings, garden furniture, and temporary structures are secured.
4. Monitor Weather Alerts: Stay updated with real-time weather forecasts from reliable sources like Meteora Weather Service.

Conclusion

The Nor’wester season in East India is a vital pre-monsoon phenomenon, bringing relief from summer heat while also posing risks. Being prepared, staying alert, and taking necessary precautions can help minimize its adverse effects. For the latest updates and forecasts, stay tuned to Meteora Weather Service.