Kolkata's Mercury Climbs to 29.2°C, Highest in Nearly Three Months
The city of Kolkata is experiencing a notable shift in weather patterns as the maximum temperature inches closer to the 30°C mark after a prolonged period of cooler conditions. On Wednesday, the Alipore Meteorological Office recorded a daytime high of 29.2°C, which stands as the highest reading since November 22 of the previous year. This development marks a significant departure from the consistent cold that has characterized the winter season.
Meteorologists Confirm Seasonal Warming Trend
According to officials from the Met department, this rise in temperature is part of a natural seasonal progression and does not indicate any sudden or extreme heatwave conditions. They have reassured residents that no abrupt increase in temperatures is anticipated over the next seven days, effectively dispelling concerns about immediate sweaty or uncomfortable weather. The recorded maximum of 29.2°C was 0.3 degrees above the normal benchmark for this time of year.
While daytime temperatures are gradually ascending, the night-time readings have maintained a cooler profile. On the same Wednesday, Kolkata's minimum temperature settled at 15.6°C, which is 2.1 degrees below the normal level. This contrast between warming days and cooler nights creates a balanced atmospheric condition.
Detailed Forecast and Historical Context
Meteorologist H R Biswas, who heads the Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata, provided insights into the expected weather trajectory. "The maximum temperature will hover between 28°C and 30°C over the next one week, while the minimum temperature is expected to swing between 16°C and 18°C during this period, pulling the mercury near or slightly below normal," he explained. Biswas emphasized that any temperature fluctuations will be marginal and gradual, aligning with typical seasonal transitions.
He further noted that the consistent cold feeling during this winter was due to both maximum and minimum temperatures remaining mostly below normal. "Hence, a slight rise might make people feel warmer," Biswas added, highlighting the perceptual impact of even minor temperature changes.
The last instance when Kolkata logged a maximum temperature in the 30s was on November 20, when Alipore recorded 30.1°C. Following that, daytime temperatures predominantly stayed below the normal mark. In fact, out of the 11 days in February so far, the maximum temperature remained below normal on nine days. The minimum temperature, which has been fluctuating between 14°C and 16°C this month, crossed the normal threshold only on a single day.
Atmospheric Factors Driving the Change
A western disturbance that had been influencing north-western regions has now moved away, contributing to the changing weather dynamics. Although Kolkata continues to receive dry and cold northerly winds, the increasing solar insulation in the regions from which these winds originate has reduced their chilling effect.
Biswas elaborated on this phenomenon: "This wind system is now not potent enough to drag the mercury down, as daytime solar insulation is gradually increasing in regions from where this system originates. Hence, we can expect the days to get gradually warmer while at night and early mornings, it could be pleasant or slightly cold."
This combination of factors suggests a steady and predictable warming trend, with days becoming progressively warmer while nights retain a pleasant or mildly cold character. Residents can anticipate a balanced transition into the upcoming season without the fear of sudden heat spikes.
