Kolkata: South Bengal is reeling under an intense heatwave, with temperatures reaching the 40°C mark in several districts and high humidity worsening the discomfort.
Kolkata and adjoining areas continue to face sweltering conditions, with little respite even at night.
The lack of rainfall over the past few days has further intensified the situation, disrupting normal life and forcing people to limit outdoor movement during peak hours.
Amid the extreme weather, four voters reportedly died while casting their votes during the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections.
The deaths were reported from East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Malda, and Birbhum districts.
In East Midnapore's Patashpur, Nripendra Das lost his life, while Isratan Bibi died in Keshpur of West Midnapore. In Malda's Malatipur, Pramila Bagdi passed away and Asim Roy died in Suri, Birbhum.
Preliminary reports suggest that heat-induced cardiac issues may have led to these deaths.
Weather officials have indicated the possibility of Kalbaishakhi (nor'wester) storms developing over parts of South Bengal in the coming days. These storms may bring thunderstorms and gusty winds, leading to localised weather changes before the second phase of Election on April 29.
With polling underway in phases, the state is facing the dual challenge of extreme heat and electoral activity, raising concerns over public safety and preparedness in such
harsh conditions.