After making landfall between Tinkona Island and Sandwip near Barisal in Bangladesh on Monday night, Cyclone Sitrang traversed the Bangladesh coast while skirting the West Bengal coast. In Bangladesh, Sitrang caused significant devastation, resulting in at least 35 casualties and leaving approximately 8 million people without power. The Bangladesh government reported damage to around 10,000 homes, the destruction of more than 6,000 hectares (15,000 acres) of crops, and the loss of numerous fishing projects.
Originating from the north Bay of Bengal and moving towards Bangladesh at a speed of 56 kmph, the tropical storm brought moderate to heavy rain and squally weather to West Bengal’s coastal districts, including South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, and Purba Medinipur. This weather disruption dampened the festive spirits on Diwali and Kali Puja.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) anticipates an improvement in the weather conditions in the southern districts of West Bengal. The cyclone is expected to weaken into a depression and subsequently transform into a low-pressure system by Tuesday evening, according to the IMD.
The weather office issued warnings of squally winds, with speeds reaching 40 to 50 kmph and gusts up to 60 kmph along and off the West Bengal coast on Tuesday morning. These conditions are expected to gradually diminish to 30 to 40 kmph, with gusts up to 50 kmph by forenoon.
Intermittent showers on Monday prompted people to stay indoors, leading to a subdued atmosphere in Kolkata, which would typically attract large crowds to visit Kali Puja pandals and witness the city’s vibrant lights. The West Bengal government, anticipating adverse weather, advised people to take necessary precautions. Chief Secretary Hari Krishna Dwivedi directed district magistrates to stockpile relief materials and ordered the evacuation of individuals from coastal areas. A red alert was issued for fishermen.
The rain adversely affected festive activities, with many shops in Kolkata’s Esplanade, Maniktala, Koley Market, and Burrabazar areas remaining closed. Vendors expressed disappointment with the impact on business due to the cyclone and rain, contrasting with the satisfactory sales experienced until Sunday.