Kolkata weather today: Sunny skies, air quality concerns remain
Times of India | 21 January 2026
Kolkata, on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, is experiencing a bright, sunny day with a significant warm-up into the afternoon, yet lingering severe air pollution from yesterday remains a primary concern for residents. The day is characterized by a "familiar January pattern—cool-ish early hours, then a quick climb into summer-like afternoon warmth," with temperatures expected to reach 29.4°C, while air quality, which was "severe" yesterday, necessitates precautions like masks, especially near busy roads. This sunny and warm stretch is forecast to continue throughout the week, with highs potentially reaching 31.8°C, though elevated particulate pollution and stronger winds later in the week could pose additional challenges.
The city of Kolkata begins Wednesday, January 21, 2026, with a bright, winter-sun note. A clean-looking sky is observed across the region. A proper daytime warm-up is anticipated for residents. The forecast indicates sunny conditions will persist throughout the entire day.
Today's weather in Kolkata is marked by sunshine and warm afternoons, contributing to a lighter winter feel. The temperature is projected to run between a low of 17.4°C and a high of 29.4°C. The average temperature for the day is around 23.3°C.
Humidity levels are expected to be relatively comfortable for the city, staying at about 38 percent. This level of humidity should prevent the afternoon from feeling sticky, even as temperatures rise. Winds will be present but not aggressive, peaking near 13.3 kilometers per hour.
Visibility is expected to be strong, recorded at approximately 10 kilometers. The chance of rain is 0 percent, with 0 millimeters of expected precipitation, indicating a completely dry day.
With skies remaining clear, the "hourly shift" observed will be primarily temperature-driven. Cooler, softer air is expected after sunrise, which occurred at 6:18 AM. A steady warm-up will then proceed into the late morning and early afternoon, when the sun will feel sharpest.
By evening, temperatures are expected to ease again after sunset, which is at 5:17 PM. This will make conditions more comfortable for a walk, though air quality may influence the duration of such an activity. Moon-watchers can observe a Waxing Crescent with 5 percent illumination. The moon will be visible from 7:59 AM to 7:39 PM.
Air quality remains a significant concern for Kolkata residents. Yesterday, Tuesday, January 20, the city's air quality was "firmly in the danger zone." The AQI on the India scale registered 381.
This reading classified the air quality as "Category 5: Severe." On the US scale, the AQI stood at 332, which also signaled "hazardous conditions."
The specific numbers contributing to these classifications are notable. PM2.5 was recorded at 223, and PM10 was at 285. Both levels are high enough to aggravate breathing issues and trigger headaches. They can also cause throat irritation or fatigue in healthy individuals, particularly with prolonged outdoor exposure. Carbon monoxide (CO) was recorded at 832, further adding to the overall pollutant load.
Sunny weather can sometimes assist in mixing the air as the day warms. However, in winter, pollution frequently spikes in the morning and late evening. This occurs when the atmosphere traps pollutants closer to the ground.
With no rain anticipated, there will be no natural "wash out" of particles. Therefore, residents are advised: "don’t assume clear skies automatically mean clean air."
Planning the day involves a "two-check" approach: dressing for the weather and planning for the air quality. The afternoon sunshine can feel strong, making sunglasses and water beneficial, especially if outdoors between late morning and 3 PM. For those commuting through traffic-heavy corridors, a well-fitting mask is recommended as the best protection.
Individuals with asthma, allergies, heart, or lung conditions should limit their outdoor time. They are advised to avoid strenuous exercise outside and consider indoor workouts instead. If choosing a time for a quick walk, late morning may offer the nicest weather conditions. However, selecting a quieter, greener route is suggested to reduce exposure to pollutants.
The week ahead is expected to be "remarkably consistent." Sunny conditions are forecast every day, with no rain in the outlook. High temperatures are projected to hover between 29°C and 32°C.
Specifically, the high on January 22 is expected to be 29.2°C. On January 23, it will be 29.6°C, rising to 30.6°C on January 24. The temperature is anticipated to peak around 31.8°C on January 25.
Nights during the week will remain mild to cool. The low on January 22 is forecast at 17.2°C. The week’s coolest low is expected near 15.9°C on January 23. Nights will then become slightly warmer, reaching around 18–19°C by January 25–26.
For those planning outdoor activities, Friday, January 23, appears to be a "sweet spot." This day will still be sunny, feature the coolest night of the week, and have comparatively lower humidity.
A caution is issued as the warmth builds by the weekend and early next week. Stronger winds, potentially up to 20.2 kilometers per hour, are expected on January 27. These winds could kick up dust locally, which is not ideal given that particulate pollution is already elevated.
The data referenced in this article, providing detailed air quality and weather information, is taken from AQI.in.