Weather
Heatwave in West Bengal 2026: Loo Forecast, Health Protection and School Guidelines
When heatwaves (loo) strike West Bengal, what IMD heatwave warnings mean, how to avoid heat stroke, caring for children and the elderly, and school-office guidelines — a complete guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When does IMD declare a heatwave?
A heatwave is declared when the plains' maximum temperature is 4.5-6.4°C above normal, and a severe heatwave when it is more than 6.4°C above. Coastal districts use slightly different thresholds.
What are the symptoms of heat stroke?
A hot body but no sweating, unusually rapid heartbeat, dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness. In this state, immediately move the person into the shade, pour water over the body and dial 108.
What should you eat during a loo?
Plenty of water, sherbet, coconut water, buttermilk, cold rice water (panta bhaat) and watermelon-muskmelon. Avoid heavy fried food and going out in the sun on an empty stomach.
In detail
In West Bengal’s summer, the loo or heatwave returns again and again from mid-April to mid-June — especially in the western districts of Jhargram, Purulia, Bankura, Birbhum and Malda, where the mercury touches 40°C. This guide covers reading the warnings, protecting your body, and every practical way to keep your family safe.
When and Where the Loo Is Most Fierce
| Region | Risk | Key Months |
|---|---|---|
| Purulia, Jhargram, Bankura | Highest (40-45°C) | April-June |
| Malda, Murshidabad, Birbhum | High | April-May |
| Kolkata and suburbs | Moderate + humidity stress | May-June |
| Coast (Digha) | Comparatively lower | — |
Read IMD’s Heatwave Alerts
- Yellow: heat is rising — avoid the midday sun
- Orange: heatwave — shift outdoor work to morning and evening
- Red: severe heatwave — don’t go outside unless essential
Check live forecasts on our weather page.
8 Rules to Protect Your Body
- Water — drink every hour even without thirst; keep ORS at home
- Clothing — loose, light-coloured cotton; umbrella, hat or gamchha on the head
- Timing — avoid going out in the sun between 11 AM and 4 PM
- Drinks — buttermilk, sherbet, coconut water and cold rice water replenish the body’s salt and sugar
- Food — light and easy to digest; no fried food and no sun on an empty stomach
- Children and the elderly — make them drink water repeatedly; they can dehydrate even with little thirst
- Cars — never leave a child or pet in a parked car
- Medicines — patients with blood pressure or diabetes should have their doses reviewed with a doctor’s advice
Heat Cramps → Heat Exhaustion → Heat Stroke
- Cramps: cramping in hands and legs, excessive sweating → sit in the shade and take ORS/salt-sugar water
- Exhaustion: dizziness, weakness, nausea, skin soaked in cold sweat → lay the person in the shade, pour water over the body, let them sip slowly
- Stroke (dangerous): hot to the touch, no sweating, confusion, unconsciousness → dial 108 immediately; while waiting, pour water over the groin, hands and neck
Schools and Offices
During a heatwave, district administrations usually change school hours or declare holidays — don’t listen to rumours without the district’s official announcement. For people working outdoors (masons, farmers, delivery workers), taking a midday break is the smart move.
See also: the Kalbaishakhi guide and the Monsoon guide.
Related topics
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