Kolkata Greets Monday with Sunshine and Pollution Concerns
Kolkata welcomes Monday, January 19, 2026, with bright sunshine and clear skies. The city expects a sunny day ahead. Temperatures will range from a minimum of 15.9°C to a maximum of 30.4°C.
However, air quality remains a major worry. Yesterday's pollution levels hit the severe category. This haze might persist today despite the blue skies.
Detailed Weather Conditions for Kolkata
Today's weather in Kolkata promises consistent sunshine. The afternoon will feel warm, while the late night turns noticeably cooler. This classic January pattern offers comfortable mornings before temperatures rise sharply.
The average temperature settles around 22.8°C. Humidity stays relatively low at approximately 29%. This prevents the heat from feeling sticky.
Winds will be gentle to moderate. Speeds peak near 12.6 km/h, providing a light breeze. Unfortunately, these winds may not clear pollutants effectively.
Rain is completely absent from the forecast. The city expects 0 mm of precipitation with a 0% chance. Umbrellas can stay at home.
Sunrise occurs at 6:19 AM, bringing a cooler start. Strong sunshine dominates from late morning to mid-afternoon. Sunset happens at 5:16 PM, followed by a comfortable temperature drop.
Residents heading out late should carry a light layer. Temperatures fall quickly after sunset compared to the afternoon high.
Severe Air Quality Poses Health Risks
Air quality remains a significant concern. Sunday's pollution sat firmly in the severe range. The Indian AQI scale recorded a value of 346, placing it in Category 5.
On the US scale, the reading was 277. This indicates unhealthy-to-hazardous conditions for many people.
Particulate levels were alarmingly high yesterday. PM2.5 reached 189, while PM10 hit 241. CO levels stood at 714.
Such high PM2.5 levels cause more than just bad air. They can lead to irritated eyes and throat, coughing, headaches, and breathing strain.
Children, older adults, and individuals with asthma or heart conditions face higher risks. Today's sunny and dry weather may worsen pollution. Without rain, pollutants lack natural washout.
Light winds might fail to disperse existing pollution effectively. Ground-level air could remain harsh, especially during mornings and late evenings.
Practical Advice for Kolkata Residents
Residents should take precautions when venturing outside. Wearing masks is highly recommended, particularly near busy roads.
The morning offers pleasant conditions for light exercise. Adding a mask remains a smart choice for protection.
Midday feels the warmest. Sunglasses and proper hydration ensure comfort during this period.
Commuters using traffic-heavy corridors should keep vehicle windows up. Using well-fitting masks provides additional safety.
Families planning outdoor activities should choose open, greener spaces. Avoiding congested streets reduces pollution exposure.
Moderate physical activity intensity if the air feels irritating. Pollution-sensitive individuals might schedule longer walks for late morning.
Air quality sometimes improves marginally after the early rush-hour period.
Week Ahead Forecast for Kolkata
Kolkata's weather remains consistently sunny throughout the week. Daytime temperatures will rise gradually.
After today's maximum of 30.4°C, temperatures climb to 31.6°C on January 20. They further increase to 32.2°C on January 21.
Temperatures hover around 32–33°C through January 23. Saturday, January 24, becomes the warmest day, reaching 33.8°C.
A slight easing follows on January 25, with a maximum of 33.2°C. Nights also grow warmer. Minimum temperatures move from 15.9°C today to approximately 20–20.4°C by January 24–25.
This pattern suggests summer-like afternoons by the upcoming weekend. Outdoor plans work best during early mornings or post-sunset.
If pollution levels stay elevated, choosing parks over roadsides remains advisable. Moon illumination stays at 0% today, rising gradually through the week.
Late-night skies may appear clearer but darker. Staying visible and cautious on roads becomes important.
