Kolkata Records First 30°C+ Temperature in Nearly Three Months
The city of Kolkata experienced a significant weather shift on Wednesday as the maximum temperature climbed above the 30°C mark for the first time in close to three months. The mercury reached 30.4°C, which represents a reading 0.4 notches above the normal expected temperature for this time of year.
Historical Context and Recent Temperature Patterns
This temperature milestone marks a notable departure from Kolkata's recent weather patterns. The last instance when the city recorded 30°C or higher occurred on November 19, before the onset of the consistent winter season that Kolkata experienced this year. Since November 21, the maximum temperature had consistently remained below the 30°C threshold.
The winter season brought particularly low temperatures, with the mercury plunging to 18°C on January 6. This reading represented the lowest January temperature recorded in approximately a decade, highlighting the intensity of this year's winter season.
Meteorological Forecast and Expected Trends
According to meteorological experts, this temperature increase represents a seasonal shift rather than the influence of any major weather system. H R Biswas, head of the Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata, explained the current situation: "At present, the normal maximum temperature for Kolkata is 30°C. This might go up further and touch 31°C in the next two-three days."
The meteorologist further noted that nighttime temperatures are also expected to become slightly warmer, with a gradual rise of about two to three notches anticipated. The minimum temperature, which stood at 17.4°C on Wednesday, is likely to approach 20°C in the coming days.
February Temperature Analysis and Wind Patterns
An examination of February's temperature data reveals that before Wednesday's reading, the maximum temperature had breached the normal mark only once this month. On February 11, the temperature touched 29.2°C, but despite this slight increase, temperatures remained below normal on 16 out of the 18 days recorded so far this month.
The sustained winter conditions in December and January were largely attributed to the dry and cold north-westerly wind system that prevailed over the city. This weather pattern occurred in the absence of major systems such as western disturbances or low-pressure areas, ensuring a consistent winter atmosphere throughout those months.
Current Atmospheric Conditions and Future Projections
Meteorological officials report that Kolkata continues to receive dry north-westerly winds, which are currently preventing a sharp increase in temperatures. However, these winds have lost their potency to cause significant mercury dips. Biswas elaborated on the current conditions: "The fact that people are not perspiring despite the mercury touching 30°C is because the moisture content in the lower atmosphere is still low. We are still getting the dry northerly or north-westerly wind. The temperature is rising mainly due to daytime heating."
Looking ahead, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) anticipates no major weather systems in the coming week that could trigger a sharp temperature rise in the city. Although a low-pressure area has formed over the Equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal, meteorological officials confirm that this system will have no direct impact on Bengal's weather patterns.
Night Temperature Trends and Seasonal Transition
The night temperatures have remained below normal on 17 out of 18 days this month, contributing to a slight cold feeling during early mornings. However, with the expected gradual rise in minimum temperatures, both nights and early mornings are likely to become warmer in the coming days.
Meteorologists note that once the city begins receiving moist air from the Bay of Bengal, heat and humidity levels could increase rapidly, potentially elevating the discomfort factor for residents. For now, the seasonal temperature rise appears gradual and consistent with typical weather transitions for this time of year.
