Kolkata weather: Sunny skies, comfortable temperatures; air quality alert
Times of India | 14 January 2026
On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, Kolkata is experiencing a bright and clear winter day with comfortable temperatures, following a cool start and anticipating an afternoon warm-up. However, a significant concern persists from yesterday's air quality, which remained in the "severe" bracket and is expected to linger today despite the pleasant weather conditions. Residents are advised to enjoy the favorable daytime temperatures but to remain cautious regarding air pollution, particularly in high-traffic areas, with a mask recommended for those stepping out early or commuting. The week ahead forecasts a consistent warming trend under steady sunshine, but the current air quality demands attention.
Kolkata began the day with clear skies and classic January sunshine, indicating a no-nonsense winter day. A comfortable warm-up is expected through the afternoon hours, following a cool start to the morning. This makes the day suitable for commuting and running errands.
The primary concern for the city, however, stems from the air quality recorded on the previous day. Pollution levels were noted to be in the "severe" bracket. This condition can persist into the current day, even with the pleasant weather.
"If you’re stepping out early, it’s a good morning for a short walk—but it’s also wise to keep a mask handy, especially near busy roads."
Today's weather forecast indicates dominant sunshine. The morning hours are expected to remain crisp.
"Today’s forecast is Sunny, with a maximum of 25.2°C and a minimum of 12.1°C, averaging around 18.5°C."
The air is projected to feel fairly dry and comfortable. This is due to the expected humidity levels.
"Humidity is expected to sit near 33%, which should keep the air feeling fairly dry and comfortable rather than sticky."
Wind conditions are anticipated to be light-to-moderate. These winds are not expected to exceed a certain speed.
"Winds remain light-to-moderate, topping out around 12.2 km/h."
There is no expectation of rain or weather disruption. The forecast indicates clear conditions.
"with 0 mm rain expected and a 0% chance of rain, there’s little chance of weather disruption."
Throughout the day, the coolest period in Kolkata will likely be during the early morning. This time is considered ideal for outdoor exercise before the sun intensifies.
Temperatures are projected to climb steadily by late morning and into the afternoon. Clear skies will accompany this rise, creating a warm, sunlit atmosphere. This environment is suitable for activities such as drying laundry, outdoor work, or a quick coffee run.
After the sun sets, temperatures are expected to ease down. Sunset is anticipated at a specific time.
"After sunset (around 5:12 PM), temperatures should ease down again, and the late evening may feel distinctly cooler—worth keeping a light layer ready if you’ll be out for dinner or a night commute."
Yesterday's air quality was categorized as severe. This was recorded on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
"On Tuesday, 13 January 2026, Kolkata recorded an AQI (India) of 307, placing it in the Severe category."
The pollutant mix was predominantly particulate matter. Specific levels were noted for PM2.5 and PM10.
"The pollutant mix was dominated by particulate matter: PM2.5 at 145 and PM10 at 183, both high enough to irritate the eyes, throat, and chest—especially for children, older adults, and anyone with asthma or heart conditions."
The US AQI also indicated unhealthy air conditions. This measurement provided an additional perspective on the air quality.
"The US AQI stood at 225, also signalling unhealthy air."
The current sunny and dry weather, combined with light winds, presents a dual effect. While it feels pleasant, it does not aid in clearing pollution.
"Sunny, dry weather with light winds can be a double-edged sword: it feels great, but it doesn’t always help “wash out” pollution the way rain does."
With no rain forecast and gentle winds, pollution is likely to persist. This is particularly true during certain times of the day and in specific locations.
"With no showers in the forecast and relatively gentle winds, pollution can remain stubborn, particularly during morning and late-evening hours when local emissions and near-ground trapping can make breathing feel heavier in congested corridors."
Planning for the day involves dressing for contrasting temperatures. A cool start will transition to a warm afternoon. Sunglasses are recommended for the bright midday glare. A light jacket or shawl will be useful in the early morning and after sunset.
For those commuting through areas with heavy traffic, wearing a mask is advised. This applies to specific high-traffic stretches.
"If you commute through high-traffic stretches—EM Bypass, central business areas, or major crossings—consider wearing a well-fitting mask, because particulate levels have been consistently elevated."
If planning a workout, a specific time window is suggested for potentially cleaner air. However, sensitive individuals should still exercise caution.
"the cleaner-feeling window is often later morning to early afternoon when the air can feel more mixed, but sensitive groups should still keep intensity moderate."
For families, the day is suitable for outdoor time, but choosing appropriate locations and maintaining hydration are important.
"For families, it’s a fine day for outdoor time, but choose open parks over roadside promenades, and keep hydration up—the dry air can sneakily dehydrate."
Looking ahead, the coming week is expected to show a warming trend. Consistent sunshine is also anticipated.
"The coming week stays remarkably consistent: sunny skies every day with no rainfall expected."
Temperatures are projected to gradually increase. Daytime highs will move from the mid-20s towards a warmer conclusion.
Thursday, January 15, is expected to have similar temperatures.
"Thursday (15 Jan) looks similar at 25.6°C/13°C."
Friday, January 16, will see a slight increase in temperatures.
"Friday (16 Jan) edges up to 26.2°C/12.7°C."
By Saturday and Sunday, the warmth will become more noticeable. Specific temperatures are forecast for these days.
"By Saturday and Sunday, warmth becomes more noticeable—26.8°C/13.4°C and 28.3°C/14.8°C respectively."
The following week is predicted to be distinctly hotter for January standards. This includes specific temperature forecasts for Monday and Tuesday.
"Next week turns distinctly hotter for January standards: Monday reaches 30.4°C/16.2°C, and Tuesday peaks at 31.7°C/18.2°C."
For outdoor plans, a particular day stands out as ideal. It is expected to be warm but not excessively hot.
"For outdoor plans, Sunday (18 Jan) stands out as a sweet spot—warm but not yet at early-summer intensity."
Towards the end of January, the afternoon heat will necessitate lighter clothing and sun protection. Timing errands earlier in the day will also be beneficial.
"By 19–20 January, afternoon heat will call for lighter clothing, sunscreen, and timing errands earlier in the day."
The information and data presented in this article are based on a specific source.
"Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in."