Kolkata Swelters Under Season's Hottest Day as Mercury Touches 36.4°C
Kolkata endured its most intense heat of the season on Wednesday, with the maximum temperature soaring to 36.4°C, marking the highest reading recorded this year. The relentless rise in mercury over recent days culminated in this peak, breaching the 36° mark and leaving residents grappling with oppressive conditions.
Heat and Humidity Combine for Uncomfortable Conditions
Although the temperature was only 0.5° above the normal level, the city felt significantly hotter due to elevated humidity levels. During peak afternoon hours, the feel-like temperature spiked to between 41° and 42°, intensifying the discomfort for Kolkatans. This marked the first instance in 19 days that the maximum temperature exceeded the normal benchmark.
The minimum temperature also climbed to a seasonal high of 28.2°, which is two notches above normal, resulting in hot and humid nights that offered little respite. The absence of nor'wester spells, which typically provide relief from heat and humidity from March to May before the monsoon, has persisted for over a week, exacerbating the situation.
Regional Variations and Meteorological Insights
Neighboring areas reported even higher temperatures, with Howrah reaching 39°C, while Dum Dum and Salt Lake recorded 37.3°C and 36.8°C, respectively. IMD meteorologist HR Biswas, head of the Regional Meteorological Centre Kolkata, explained, "With the mercury likely to continue swinging between 36° and 37°, the heat and humidity condition is likely to remain the same till we get a rain respite likely by Saturday. The expected thundershower spells will tame the mercury once again."
It is noteworthy that the Alipore observatory, where official temperature readings are taken, is surrounded by greenery, making it cooler than many other parts of the city. This means the recorded temperature might be lower than what is experienced in urban pockets. For instance, the IMD's Mausam app showed temperatures as high as 39°C in areas like Indian Mirror and 38°C in Ultadanga around the same time Alipore registered 36.4°C.
Forecast Predicts Relief by Weekend
The Met office has indicated that while temperatures are unlikely to rise further, there will be no significant relief from the swelter until the weekend. A rain break is anticipated by Saturday, after which temperatures are expected to retreat below normal levels. Biswas added, "We can expect a gradual fall in mercury by Saturday and further fall in the following days. How sharp the fall will be will depend on the intensity of the thunderstorm spell. But overall the weather will become comfortable once again post the thunderstorm activities."
In addition to Kolkata, several southern districts of Bengal are forecasted to experience thundershower spells during this period. While districts such as Bankura, Asansol, Panagarh, and Purulia are already facing heat wave-like conditions, Met officials have reassured that Kolkata is not currently at risk of such extreme weather.
Historical Context and Long-Term Trends
Over the past decade and a half, April maximum temperatures have hit the 40°C mark in four years, including in April 2024 and 2023, highlighting a pattern of rising heat in the region. This recent spike underscores the ongoing challenges posed by climate variability and urban heat effects in Kolkata.
