Kolkata weather today: Sunshine, mild temperatures, and air quality alert
Times of India | 13 January 2026
Kolkata on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, is experiencing a bright and dry day with sunny skies and comfortably warm afternoon temperatures, though morning and late evening will remain cool. However, yesterday's air quality was in the "poor" bracket with an AQI-IN of 297, -a condition that can persist despite clear weather-. The week ahead promises consistent sunshine, with a noticeable warming trend expected by the weekend, while residents are advised to take precautions against lingering pollution.
Kolkata is forecast to experience sunshine throughout the day, following a mild winter morning. The city's temperatures are predicted to reach a high of 26.1°C and a low of 12.8°C. The average temperature for the day is expected to be near 19.1°C.
Humidity levels will remain on the lower side for the city, at approximately 33 percent. This low humidity is expected to make the afternoon sun feel dry rather than sticky. Winds are not anticipated to be particularly strong, but they will be noticeable at times. Speeds are forecast to reach up to about 14.8 kilometers per hour, providing a light and pleasant breeze in open areas.
Rain is essentially off the table for today, with zero millimeters of precipitation expected. The chance of rain is also zero percent. Visibility is forecast to remain strong at approximately 10 kilometers. While strong visibility usually accompanies sunny days, haze from pollution in Kolkata can still reduce "felt" clarity, -even when official forecasts appear favorable-.
Hourly temperature shifts are not dramatic for today. The early morning is expected to offer the coolest and most comfortable window. A bright and warmer period is anticipated from midday into the late afternoon. Following sunset, which is at 5:12 PM, a quick drop in temperature is expected. For those planning an outdoor workout, the morning is considered the safest bet for both comfort and to avoid peak daytime glare.
Kolkata's air on Monday, January 12, was firmly in the "poor" category according to the Indian AQI scale. The AQI-IN registered at 297, placing it in Category 4. On the US AQI scale, the reading was 228, which also indicates unhealthy conditions.
High particulate levels were identified as the main drivers of this pollution. PM2.5 levels were recorded at 147, and PM10 levels at 185. This type of pollution typically irritates the throat and eyes. It can also aggravate asthma, allergies, and other respiratory issues, particularly for children, seniors, and individuals commuting for long hours.
Today's weather, characterized by sunny, dry conditions and only modest wind, does not guarantee a quick cleanup of the air. With no rain to wash out particles and relatively calm conditions, pollution can remain trapped near the surface, especially during cooler hours. While the slight daytime breeze may offer some assistance, if emissions remain high, air quality can still feel harsh. -This is particularly true near major roads and construction zones-.
Today presents a classic Kolkata winter day, suitable for sunglasses and light layers. The day will feature a comfortable morning, a warm afternoon, and a cooler evening. For individuals riding a two-wheeler or spending time at traffic crossings, a good-quality mask, preferably N95 or KN95, is recommended. -This can help reduce exposure to fine particles-. It is advisable to schedule outdoor errands and exercise after sunrise and before late morning. -This period is when the morning chill eases but the day has not yet fully heated up-.
Individuals with breathing sensitivities should keep inhalers or medications handy. They should also consider sticking to indoor workouts if any irritation is noticed. Even under sunny skies, choosing quieter streets or parks away from traffic is recommended for walks.
The week ahead is marked by consistent sunny weather, with no rain signaled through January 19. High temperatures are expected to hold around 26–27°C through Saturday, January 17. Nighttime lows will mostly stay in the 12–13°C range, which is pleasantly cool, particularly in the early morning.
From Sunday onward, a warming trend is anticipated. January 18 is forecast to see temperatures of 28.5°C for the high and 15.5°C for the low. January 19 is expected to climb further, reaching about 30.2°C for the high and 16.2°C for the low. -This represents a noticeable jump that could make afternoons feel more summer-like-. For those planning longer outdoor activities, Tuesday to Friday, January 13 to 16, appear best for comfort. Sunday and Monday may require extra hydration and sun protection during peak hours.
Kolkata's pollution has been persistently high in recent times. Several days last week touched the "severe" category, with AQI-IN readings ranging from 300+ to 400. Yesterday's "poor" reading, at 297, is still considered unhealthy. However, it represents a slight step down from those severe spikes, -offering a small relief rather than indicating a clean-air day-.
"Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in."