Residents of Kolkata and across West Bengal woke up to a severe chill on the final morning of 2025, as the city recorded its lowest minimum temperature of the season. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed the mercury plunged to a brisk 11 degrees Celsius.
IMD Data Confirms Record Chill
According to the official data released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the reading of 11 degrees Celsius was logged on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. This temperature marks a significant drop, standing at a substantial 2.8 degrees below the normal average for this time of year. The reading solidifies the day as the coldest period of the ongoing winter season for the metropolitan city.
Cold Wave Grips the Region
The intense cold conditions were not confined to Kolkata alone. A widespread cold wave gripped various parts of West Bengal, bringing a sharp dip in temperatures across the state. The IMD's announcement highlights the severity of the winter spell impacting eastern India as the year drew to a close.
Implications and Public Advisory
Such a notable deviation from normal winter temperatures can have several effects:
- Health concerns for the elderly, children, and vulnerable populations increase.
- Dense morning fog often accompanies such lows, potentially disrupting travel and transportation.
- The demand for winter essentials and power typically sees a sudden surge.
While the IMD's report captures a specific meteorological event, it serves as a crucial indicator of the prevailing weather pattern. Authorities often issue advisories during such cold waves, urging citizens to take necessary precautions against the biting cold. The record low on the year's last day provided a chilly farewell to 2025 for the people of Kolkata.
