Kolkata weather: Sunny skies, warm temperatures; lingering air pollution
Times of India | 23 January 2026
Kolkata, Thursday, January 22, 2026, is set for a bright and clear day with abundant sunshine and warm temperatures reaching a high of 28.4°C.
However, residents are advised to exercise caution as severe air quality from yesterday, which recorded an AQI (India) of 358, is expected to linger, necessitating precautions such as mask usage near busy roads and consideration of indoor air purification despite the clear skies.
The day begins on a pleasant note, offering an opportunity for a short walk in the early morning.
Despite the clear appearance of the sky, carrying a mask remains a sensible measure, particularly when near busy roads.
Temperatures are projected to climb steadily throughout the late afternoon, creating a warm rather than wintery feel.
The air is expected to remain fairly dry.
Today's forecast indicates continuous sunshine, with no rainfall anticipated.
Kolkata is expected to experience a high temperature of 28.4°C and a low of 16.4°C.
The average temperature for the day is estimated to be near 21.9°C, reflecting typical January warmth once the sun has risen.
Humidity levels are relatively low for the city, recorded at approximately 34%.
This low humidity should contribute to a more comfortable feeling during the afternoon heat.
However, it may also lead to dry eyes or throat for some individuals, especially in areas prone to dust.
Winds are predicted to be light-to-moderate, with speeds peaking around 15.1 km/h.
With a 0% chance of rain, there is little natural mechanism to clear away pollution.
Consequently, despite the appearance of a blue sky, the air may not feel truly fresh.
The day's rhythm will include cooler, softer conditions in the early morning hours.
A quick warm-up is expected by late morning, with the hottest period occurring from early to mid-afternoon.
Following sunset at 5:18 PM, temperatures are expected to gradually ease.
The breeze may feel a touch sharper, which could aid comfort, though it may not be sufficient to provide significant air quality relief.
On Wednesday, January 21, Kolkata registered an AQI (India) of 358.
This measurement placed the air quality in the Severe category, designated as Category 5.
On the US scale, the Air Quality Index was 307, which falls within the hazardous zone.
The primary pollutants identified were PM2.5, recorded at 206, and PM10, measured at 261.
Both these levels are typically associated with triggering irritation and breathing difficulties.
This is particularly true for vulnerable populations, including children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing conditions such as asthma or heart and lung ailments.
Carbon monoxide (CO) was also measured at 696, contributing to the overall pollutant load.
The severe air quality from yesterday holds significance for today's conditions.
Sunny and dry weather, without the cleansing effect of rainfall, often allows fine particulate matter to persist in the air.
This phenomenon is particularly noticeable during the morning and late-evening hours, when air near the ground can become stagnant.
While some daytime mixing, driven by warmth and breeze, might offer temporary relief in open areas, commuters in congested corridors may still observe haze or experience throat irritation.
For personal comfort, today's planning is straightforward.
Light cotton clothing, sunglasses, and adequate water intake are recommended for those who will be outdoors during the afternoon peak.
These comfort measures should be combined with air-safety habits.
Individuals planning outdoor exercise should aim for the late morning rather than early dawn.
Choosing parks or open grounds located away from heavy traffic is also advisable.
In areas with high vehicle density, such as EM Bypass stretches, major crossings, or construction zones, a well-fitted mask can provide a tangible difference on days when severe AQI effects linger.
At home, keeping windows open throughout the entire day may not be ideal, especially for residents living near a main road.
It is suggested to ventilate briefly when the breeze becomes more active.
Following this, windows should be closed during peak traffic hours.
For those who possess an air purifier, today is an opportune day to utilize it.
The forecast for the upcoming week indicates a remarkably consistent pattern.
Sunny days are expected every day, with no rainfall signaled.
High temperatures are projected to gradually increase, starting from 28.9°C on January 23.
This will rise to 30.4°C on January 24, and then further to 31.3°C on January 25.
Another warm period is anticipated around 30–31°C through January 28.
Nights are expected to remain comparatively comfortable, with temperatures dipping to a range of 15.5–18.2°C.
January 23 is forecast to have the coolest night in this period, with a low of 15.5°C.
For individuals planning outdoor activities, January 23 stands out as a favorable choice.
The day is expected to be warm but not reach the week's highest temperatures, and it will remain dry.
Those who are sensitive to heat should exercise a degree of caution on January 25 and January 28, as high temperatures are predicted to exceed 31°C on these days.
Given the absence of rain throughout the entire week, it is important to monitor pollution updates.
Sunshine alone does not guarantee clean air.
Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in.