Kolkata Braces for a Sunny Winter Day with Lingering Pollution Concerns
The city of Kolkata is poised to experience a remarkably bright and warm winter day on Saturday, January 24, 2026. The forecast promises clear skies and abundant sunshine, creating what many would describe as a perfect winter-sun kind of day. However, this pleasant weather comes with a significant caveat: the air quality remains a serious health concern, casting a shadow over the otherwise ideal conditions.
Detailed Weather Conditions for January 24
Residents can expect a straightforward weather pattern characterized by sunny, dry, and breezy conditions throughout the day. The temperature is forecast to climb to a warm 28.9°C during the afternoon, offering a spring-like feel that contrasts with typical winter chills. Morning and late evening temperatures will remain comfortably cool, hovering near 15.1°C, with an average daily temperature of 21.7°C providing classic late-January comfort.
Humidity levels are expected to stay low at around 29 percent, ensuring the air feels crisp rather than sticky. Visibility should hold near 10 kilometers, while winds may peak at approximately 13.7 kilometers per hour, creating a light breeze that can feel refreshing, especially after sunset. Rain is essentially off the table today, with 0 millimeters of precipitation and a 0 percent chance of rainfall.
In practical terms, the day will feel coolest around sunrise at 6:18 AM, with temperatures steadily warming through late morning into early afternoon. By evening, as sunset approaches at 5:20 PM, temperatures will ease again. The post-sunset temperature drop can be quick, making it advisable to keep a light layer handy for those planning to be out late.
Severe Air Quality Alert for Kolkata
Despite the pleasant weather, Kolkata's air quality presents a stark contrast. Yesterday, on Friday, January 23, the city's air quality was recorded in the "Severe" category, with an AQI (India) of 336 and a US scale AQI of 265, indicating very unhealthy air conditions. The main pollutants contributing to this severe rating include elevated particulate levels, with PM2.5 measured at 178 and PM10 at 219, along with carbon monoxide (CO) recorded at 403.
In such severe conditions, sensitive groups—including children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with asthma or heart conditions—may experience symptoms like throat irritation, coughing, watery eyes, headaches, and a heavy feeling during exertion. Today's sunny and dry weather, while improving visibility and comfort, does not automatically "wash out" pollution the way rain can. With no showers expected, pollution can linger, particularly during morning and late evening hours when local emissions and calmer air trap particles closer to the surface.
Health and Safety Recommendations
Given the severe air quality, residents are advised to take precautions:
- Wear a well-fitting mask, preferably N95/KN95, in traffic-heavy areas, at bus stops, or near construction sites.
- Schedule outdoor workouts for late morning or early afternoon rather than very early hours, and keep intensity moderate for those prone to breathing issues.
- At home, consider shutting windows during peak traffic hours and using an air purifier or DIY box-fan filter to improve indoor air quality in the evenings.
- For commuters or those running errands, sunglasses and staying hydrated are recommended, as the afternoon warmth can be intense under direct sun.
Weekly Weather Outlook for Kolkata
The forecast for the coming week shows remarkably consistent sunny skies with no meaningful rain signals, but with gradually rising temperatures:
- January 25 (Sunday): Sunny, high of 29.7°C, low of 16.5°C, winds at 16.2 km/h.
- January 26 (Monday): Sunny, high of 30°C, low of 17.4°C, breezier with winds at 19.1 km/h.
- January 27 (Tuesday): Sunny, high of 30°C, low of 16.6°C.
- January 28 (Wednesday): Warmer, high of 31.5°C, low of 16.9°C.
- January 29 (Thursday): Hottest spell, high of 32.2°C, low of 18.9°C.
- January 30 (Friday): Warm, high of 31.7°C, low of 19.4°C.
The pattern indicates that afternoons will continue heating up, with nights turning gradually milder, especially after January 28. For outdoor plans, Sunday to Tuesday (January 25–27) offer excellent weather conditions, though air quality may remain a concern without rainfall. If choosing a day for extended outdoor activities, January 26 stands out for its pleasant warmth and stronger breeze, but mindfulness of pollution exposure is still strongly advised.
