Kolkata's February Chill Persists, Marginal Temperature Rise Expected Mid-Week
Kolkata continues to experience temperatures slightly below the normal mark as the second fortnight of February unfolds. The Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata predicts no significant change in weather conditions over the next three to four days, but anticipates a marginal rise in temperatures by the middle of the week.
Current Temperature Trends and Forecast
On Sunday, the maximum temperature in Kolkata was recorded at 29.3°C, which is 0.7 notches below the normal level. The minimum temperature stood at 16.3°C, falling 1.9 notches below normal. This marks only the second time this month that the maximum temperature has approached the 30°C mark.
Meteorologist HR Biswas, head of the Regional Meteorological Centre, Kolkata, stated, "We do not expect any significant change in either the day or night temperatures in the next two to three days, as both are expected to continue hovering around the normal or slightly below normal. A gradual and slight increase is likely by the second half of this week."
Currently, there is no active weather system that could cause an abrupt spike in mercury levels, contributing to the stable but cooler conditions.
Historical Context and Seasonal Patterns
In the first fortnight of February, the maximum temperature remained below normal for 13 days, while the minimum temperature exceeded the normal mark only once, on February 4. Met officials highlight that unlike the monsoon season, which has defined arrival and departure dates, winter lacks such specific criteria.
However, climatologically, temperatures in Kolkata typically begin to rise around mid-February. By the end of the month, increasing humidity levels often make the weather feel uncomfortable. This pattern is influenced by seasonal wind shifts.
Factors Influencing Kolkata's Weather
The warm and moist easterly or south-easterly winds blowing from the Bay of Bengal are responsible for elevating humidity levels in the region. Conversely, dry and cold northerly or north-westerly winds can push temperatures down, contributing to the current below-normal readings.
As Kolkata navigates this period of slightly cooler weather, residents can expect a gradual warming trend as the week progresses, though significant deviations from normal are not anticipated in the immediate forecast.
