Kolkata weather forecast: Sunny skies, warm temperatures; lingering air pollution
Times of India | 25 January 2026
Kolkata residents on Sunday, January 25, 2026, are experiencing a sunny day with warm afternoons, despite yesterday's air quality registering in the "Severe" category. This persistent pollution is attributed to dry air, light winds, and an absence of rain, which prevents the dispersal of particulate matter. Individuals are advised to balance outdoor activities with necessary precautions such as wearing masks in high-traffic areas and considering indoor air quality measures, as temperatures are set to gradually rise throughout the coming week.
Today, January 25, Kolkata is expected to remain sunny throughout the day. No rain is included in the forecast for the city. Temperatures are projected to reach approximately 29.1°C. The low temperature for the day is anticipated to be around 16°C. This results in an average temperature near 22.3°C. This temperature range is characteristic of late-January, with mild mornings transitioning into warm afternoons.
Humidity is forecast at a relatively low average of 31%. This low humidity level is expected to prevent the heat from feeling sticky. Winds will remain light to moderate, with speeds topping out near 14.8 km/h. These wind conditions provide some air movement but are not strong enough to rapidly clear pollution trapped closer to the ground.
With clear skies, a gentle start is expected after sunrise at 6:18 AM. A quick warm-up will follow by late morning. The sun is scheduled to remain out until 5:20 PM. Evenings are anticipated to cool down steadily. This creates ideal conditions for a short post-work stroll. However, individuals sensitive to air quality may prefer to keep such outings brief. There is a 0% chance of rain today, meaning showers will not contribute to washing out particulate pollution.
Kolkata’s air quality on Saturday, January 24, was a significant concern. The AQI (India) registered at 331. This measurement falls into Category 5, classified as "Severe." On the US scale, the AQI stood at 292. This also indicates very unhealthy conditions.
The primary contributors to this air quality were high particulate levels. PM2.5 was recorded at 189. PM10 levels reached 235. Both these levels are elevated enough to trigger irritation and breathing discomfort for many people. This impact extends beyond those with pre-existing conditions such as asthma or heart and lung issues.
In practical terms, this type of air can cause various symptoms. These include scratchy throats, watery eyes, headaches, and breathlessness. Such effects are particularly noticeable during commutes, outdoor exercise, or extended periods in open-air markets. While today’s sunny weather appears inviting, the combination of dry air, no rain, and only modest winds suggests that pollution can remain stubborn. This is especially true in the morning and late evening when air tends to settle closer to the ground.
For managing the weather, dressing in breathable layers is recommended. Mornings may feel cool, near 16°C, but afternoons approaching 29°C can become surprisingly warm. Sunglasses and a water bottle will be beneficial, particularly if spending time outdoors after 11 AM.
Regarding air quality, if commuting or spending time near congested roads, a well-fitting mask remains a sensible choice. Scheduling workouts or longer walks for times and places with relatively cleaner air is advisable. Parks located away from main roads can offer some relief. However, on "Severe" days, it is often better to maintain a low intensity for physical activity. At home, keeping windows closed during peak traffic hours can reduce exposure. Utilizing air filtration, if available, also contributes to better indoor air quality.
The broader weather pattern for the week ahead indicates clear and warming conditions. Kolkata is expected to experience sunny weather every day from January 25 to January 31. No rain is indicated during this period. Daytime high temperatures will gradually increase. They are projected to rise from approximately 29–30°C early in the week to over 32°C later on.
The warmest period is anticipated between January 29 and January 31. Temperatures are expected to peak around 32.0–32.4°C during this stretch. Nights will also become milder. Low temperatures are forecast to move from 16°C today to roughly 20°C by the weekend.
For those planning outdoor activities, the period from January 25 to January 28 offers the most comfortable balance. Temperatures will be warm but not at their peak, and nights will remain relatively cool. From January 29 onward, afternoon heat will become more prominent. During this time, it is suggested to schedule outdoor plans for mornings and late evenings.
"Bonus insight: Yesterday’s AQI wasn’t a one-off—recent days have repeatedly been in the Very Poor to Severe zone, suggesting a persistent pollution episode rather than a single bad day."
Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in.