Kolkata residents woke up to a welcome change on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, as bright sunshine and warm temperatures replaced the hazardous smog that had choked the city just a day before. This pleasant shift offers a potential respite from typical winter pollution, but experts advise continued caution in certain areas.
Today's Sunny Skies Offer Outdoor Relief
The city is experiencing ideal conditions for stepping outside, with a maximum temperature of 28.9°C forecast for the afternoon. The day began at a fresh 20.8°C, perfect for morning walks or exercise. A gentle breeze of 7.9 km/h and low humidity of 41% will make the warmth comfortable. The forecast promises a clear sky with zero chance of rain, leading into a cool and pleasant evening.
Yesterday's Severe Air Quality: A Stark Contrast
The sunny present stands in sharp contrast to the alarming pollution levels recorded on Monday, December 1. Kolkata's air quality index (AQI-IN) hit a 'Severe' level of 331, posing significant health risks. The primary culprits were dangerously high concentrations of particulate matter.
The data, sourced from AQI.in, revealed critical levels of PM2.5 at 173 µg/m³ and PM10 at 215 µg/m³. Carbon monoxide (CO) levels were also elevated at 591 µg/m³. Such pollution can severely aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular issues, especially for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.
Planning Your Week: Sun, Stability, and Safety Tips
The good news is that the dry and sunny pattern is set to continue throughout the week. Daily high temperatures will consistently hover between 27°C and 29°C. Nights will turn progressively cooler, with the minimum expected to dip to around 15.8°C by December 7.
Here is the weekly outlook for Kolkata:
- The weather remains stable and dry.
- Winds may increase slightly to 15.5 km/h by December 5.
- December 6 and 7 will see slightly cooler afternoons at 27.7°C and 27.9°C, ideal for extended outdoor plans.
Despite the clearer skies, the lingering effects of yesterday's severe pollution may still be present in high-traffic zones. Therefore, residents are advised to:
- Carry a protective mask when spending long periods outdoors, particularly in congested areas.
- Utilize the cool mornings for activities like yoga or jogging, while avoiding known pollution hotspots.
- Use sunscreen and sunglasses during the strong afternoon sun.
- Enjoy outdoor dinners in the cool evening air but keep a mask handy as a precaution.
This sunny interlude provides a much-needed break for the City of Joy. However, staying informed about real-time air quality levels remains crucial for planning daily activities and protecting your health. Monitoring reliable sources like AQI.in can help residents navigate the interplay between Kolkata's beautiful weather and its pollution challenges.
