Kolkata Experiences Notable Temperature Rise as Minimum Touches 17°C
Kolkata witnessed a significant surge in its minimum temperature on Tuesday, with the mercury climbing to the 17°C mark. The recorded temperature of 17.2°C, while still 1.5 degrees below the normal seasonal average, represented an increase of approximately one degree from Monday's reading. This development comes amidst what has been a relatively stable winter season in the city.
Met Office Predicts Stable Conditions with Minor Fluctuations
According to meteorological officials, temperatures are expected to remain largely stable over the coming days with only minor fluctuations anticipated. A Met official explained, "At present, there is no notable weather system that would make the mercury shoot up abnormally. The minor fluctuation is seasonal, and we can expect only a gradual temperature rise for now."
This temperature surge marks the second instance in 18 days that Kolkata's minimum temperature has breached the 17°C threshold. On January 30, the city recorded a minimum of 17.9°C, indicating a pattern of warmer nights during what is typically the peak winter period.
Maximum Temperature Also Shows Consistent Pattern
While minimum temperatures have shown this upward trend, maximum temperatures have maintained their own consistent pattern. For the third consecutive day, Kolkata's maximum temperature hovered around 29°C, with Tuesday's reading of 29.4°C being 0.6 degrees below the normal mark.
The Met office forecasts that maximum temperatures will continue to remain around 29°C over the next two days. Meanwhile, minimum temperatures are expected to experience a slight further increase, potentially reaching around 18°C by Thursday.
Weather Systems and Atmospheric Conditions
Several factors are contributing to Kolkata's current weather pattern:
- Wind Direction: The city continues to receive dry northerly or north-westerly winds, which help maintain lower moisture content in the air and prevent humid conditions.
- Distance from Weather Systems: While a low-pressure area is likely to develop over the Bay of Bengal, officials at the Alipore Met Office have indicated this system will be too far away to cause any direct impact on Bengal's weather conditions.
- Seasonal Patterns: The current fluctuations are considered normal seasonal variations rather than indications of abnormal weather patterns.
The combination of these factors suggests that Kolkata residents can expect continued stable weather conditions with gradual temperature adjustments rather than sudden dramatic changes. The absence of significant moisture in the air contributes to more comfortable conditions despite the temperature increases.
As winter progresses toward spring, such gradual temperature rises are typical for the region. However, meteorological authorities continue to monitor weather systems closely to provide accurate forecasts and alerts should any significant changes develop in the coming days.