Kolkata is witnessing one of its coldest spells in recent years as winter tightens its hold across West Bengal. On Tuesday, the city recorded a minimum temperature of 12.6 degrees Celsius, 1.2 degrees below the seasonal average, while daytime highs barely reached 18.2 degrees Celsius, 7.2 degrees below normal. Meteorological officials warn that this unusual cold is likely to persist in the coming days, keeping residents and urban systems on alert.Â
The winter chill has extended beyond the city, affecting several districts across South Bengal. Purulia reported a minimum of 7.2 degrees Celsius, while hill towns such as Darjeeling fell to 4.4 degrees. Other regions, including Asansol (9.1), Digha (11.2), Cooch Behar (13.6), and Burdwan (9.0), have experienced similar temperature declines. According to a Met Department official, night-time lows are expected to remain steady for at least the next two days before a gradual rise of 2–3 degrees. Experts note that such persistent low temperatures not only pose health risks but also affect city operations, including transport and public services. Dense fog in northern districts, particularly Darjeeling and Cooch Behar, is forecast to reduce visibility to as low as 50 metres in some areas. This may disrupt local transit and increase caution for commuters and freight transport, highlighting the importance of proactive urban weather management.
In Kolkata, skies are largely clear with the possibility of morning fog in low-lying areas. Dry conditions are expected to prevail, providing some relief to daily activities, though residents are advised to take precautions against prolonged exposure to cold. Officials have also issued advisories on potential health risks, especially for the elderly, children, and individuals with respiratory issues. Urban planners and climate analysts emphasise that cities like Kolkata must increasingly integrate cold-wave resilience into public infrastructure and urban design. Efficient heating in public buildings, adaptive transport scheduling, and real-time weather communication are essential measures to mitigate the impacts of extreme seasonal events.
Industry experts suggest that monitoring and managing urban microclimates can also support sustainable and equitable city living, ensuring vulnerable populations are protected. As winter conditions continue across West Bengal, authorities and residents are urged to prepare for extended cold spells while maintaining essential services. The current pattern underscores the need for cities to adopt climate-resilient infrastructure, combining safety, efficiency, and inclusivity to navigate increasingly volatile weather events.
Kolkata Records Coldest Winter Day Minimum Temperature Drops Across South Bengal Region
