As the monsoon begins to withdraw, a Western Disturbance has altered the weather pattern. After a day of alternating sunshine and clouds on Tuesday, the weather shifted at night. Initially, strong winds accompanied lightning, followed by heavy rainfall.
The city remained drenched late into the night by the first post-monsoon rain following the season’s conclusion on September 30. The precipitation ranged from light drizzles to heavy downpours. Intermittent rain is likely to continue over the coming days. The Meteorological Department has issued a ‘Yellow Alert’ for thunderstorms and lightning until October 10, though continuous rainfall is not expected. Temperatures are likely to drop as rainfall activity increases; the maximum temperature could fall by two to three degrees this week.
Few days left for Durga Puja; changing weather adds to artisans’ anxiety
With only a few days remaining until Durga Puja, the changing weather has compounded the worries of idol artisans, who were already concerned about the continuous rain in September. Artisans putting the finishing touches on Goddess Durga’s idols will find it difficult to dry the clay figures amidst the rain.
Dulal Pal, an artisan from Lubi Circular Road, states that production costs have already risen significantly. Now, due to the rain, the idols will have to be dried using fire, which will further increase expenses.
Rain raises concerns for traders and merchants too
The market is bustling with activity ahead of Durga Puja, with shoppers flocking to everything from traditional markets to shopping malls. However, the rain threatens to dampen this festive spirit, causing concern among traders and merchants. Nevertheless, the Meteorological Department has not predicted continuous or heavy rainfall.
