The unprecedented rains in Kolkata- the highest since 1986, and the sixth highest in a single day in the last 137 years - are being classified as a ‘rare’ occurrence by scientists, which is the result of incessant warming of the Bay of Bengal. The immediate impact of this could be a delayed withdrawal of the monsoon from cities such as Kolkata and Mumbai.

The warming over the ocean, on account of increased temperature, leads to higher evaporation. In such a situation, a low-pressure area attracts more moisture from the oceans, making weather activity more intense.

It’s a situation, though rare, that will be more common in the coming times, said Mahesh Palawat, vice president, Meteorology and Climate Change, Skymet Weather.

Over 250 mm of rainfall flooded Kolkata in less than 24 hours.

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