Kolkata weather today: Sunny skies, warm temperatures; air quality alert
Times of India | 26 January 2026
Kolkata is set for a bright, dry winter day on Monday, January 26, 2026, featuring abundant sunshine and a significant warm-up by the afternoon. Clear skies are anticipated with no rainfall, and temperatures are expected to rise into the high 20s, providing suitable conditions for outdoor pursuits. However, air quality remains a concern, as the severe pollution levels recorded yesterday may persist into today despite the sunny weather. The forecast for the coming week indicates consistently bright conditions, with high temperatures steadily increasing to over 31 degrees Celsius by midweek. Residents are advised to consider health precautions related to both the sun and the lingering air pollution.
The city is forecast to begin the day at a relatively cool 17 degrees Celsius. Temperatures are then expected to climb to a peak of 29.3 degrees Celsius by the afternoon. The average temperature for the day is projected to be around 22.9 degrees Celsius.
"Today’s range is wide enough to feel like two different days."
Humidity levels are predicted to remain fairly low for Kolkata, at approximately 36 percent. This low humidity typically contributes to the heat feeling crisp rather than sticky, particularly when in the shade.
Winds will be present, though they are not expected to be aggressive. Wind speeds are forecast to reach a maximum of nearly 17.6 kilometers per hour. This level of wind is sufficient to provide some air movement without making the day blustery.
Rainfall is essentially ruled out for the day, with 0 millimeters forecast. There is also a 0 percent chance of rain. Visibility is expected to remain strong, at approximately 10 kilometers.
The day is anticipated to follow a classic late-January pattern.
"the morning feels pleasant and light, the midday sun feels sharp, and the evening cools down quickly once the light fades."
Since detailed hour-by-hour timing is not provided, planning should account for typical shifts in conditions.
"the coolest window is sunrise to mid-morning, the hottest stretch runs late morning through mid-afternoon, and a gentler breeze and cooler feel arrives after sunset."
Daylight hours will extend from 6:17 AM to 5:21 PM.
"the sun sets early even when the day turns warm."
Kolkata’s air quality on Sunday, January 25, was reported as troubling.
"Kolkata’s air quality yesterday (Sunday, January 25) was troubling."
The AQI (India) registered at 303. This placed it in Category 5, which is classified as Severe. The US AQI for the same day was 239. This also falls within the unhealthy-to-hazardous range on the scale.
"The AQI (India) came in at 303, placing it in Category 5: Severe, while the US AQI was 239—also in the unhealthy-to-hazardous end of the scale."
Particulate pollutants were identified as the primary contributors to these levels.
"The big drivers were particulate pollutants: PM2.5 at 156 and PM10 at 193, with CO at 352 also elevated."
These conditions can have noticeable effects on residents.
"For many residents, conditions like this can translate into irritated eyes and throat, heavier breathing during exertion, and flare-ups for those with asthma, COPD, or heart conditions."
Even individuals in good health may experience symptoms.
"Even healthy commuters often feel it most near traffic junctions and during longer two-wheeler rides."
The question of whether today’s weather will help improve air quality is noted.
"Sunshine and modest wind can sometimes improve mixing in the air, but dry, calm-to-moderate conditions can also allow dust and particles to persist, especially if there’s no rain to wash pollutants down."
Therefore, visual clarity of the sky may not reflect the actual air quality.
"In other words, the sky may look clear while the air still isn’t."
Planning for the day should include considerations for both the sun and air quality. Dressing appropriately for the sunny conditions is advised.
"This is a sunglasses-and-water kind of afternoon"
With temperatures approaching 29 degrees Celsius, light cotton clothing will likely be the most comfortable option. It is also recommended to avoid prolonged direct sun exposure, particularly around early afternoon.
For those planning to exercise, the early morning window is suggested when temperatures are lower. However, it is important to keep the effort moderate if the air still feels heavy.
Given yesterday’s Severe AQI, protective measures for respiratory health are recommended. This includes considering a well-fitted mask when in traffic-heavy corridors. Efforts to keep indoor air clean are also suggested where possible. Individuals should take breaks if they experience coughing or breathlessness.
Two-wheeler riders may benefit from both eye protection to reduce irritation and a mask for extended periods of travel.
Kolkata’s weather forecast indicates consistently bright conditions for the upcoming week.
"Kolkata’s forecast stays consistently bright through the coming week—almost wall-to-wall sunny skies."
High temperatures are expected to range between 29 and 32 degrees Celsius. Specifically, Tuesday is forecast to reach 29.6 degrees Celsius. Temperatures will then turn hotter, with Wednesday projected at 31.2 degrees Celsius. The peak high for the week is anticipated on Thursday, near 31.8 degrees Celsius.
Nights throughout the week are expected to remain relatively comfortable, mostly between 17 and 19 degrees Celsius. The mildest, or warmest, night is forecast to be around 19.1 degrees Celsius on Saturday.
With no rain indicated for the entire week, outdoor plans can be scheduled more easily from midweek through the weekend. However, it is important to note the period of strongest heat.
"the strongest heat arrives Wednesday to Friday, so morning outings will be more comfortable than afternoon errands."
Sunday, February 1, is also expected to be sunny, with temperatures reaching 31.7 degrees Celsius during the day and 18.2 degrees Celsius at night.
An additional note for skywatchers concerns the moon.
"the moon moves from First Quarter today to a Full Moon on February 1, with moonrise shifting later each day—nice for evening views once the haze (hopefully) eases."
The data referenced in this article is attributed to a specific source.
"Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in."