Calcutta, India – Climate and Average Weather Year Round: A Detailed Guide

Calcutta, located in eastern India near the Bay of Bengal, experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year.

The hottest month is May, with temperatures soaring to an average high of 95°F, making it quite challenging for those unaccustomed to such heat.

Winters, on the other hand, are mild with December and January seeing average highs around 66°F.

Kolkata’s climate is characterized by its tropical wet-and-dry nature.

The wet season brings heavy rainfall, especially in July, which is the wettest month of the year. This period is marked by high humidity and frequent downpours.

Conversely, the cool season spanning from December to February offers a respite with lower temperatures and reduced humidity.

Understanding the weather by month can help travelers plan their visits better.

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport provides access to this vibrant city year-round, making it a convenient destination despite the varying weather conditions.

For a detailed monthly breakdown, check out the climate data for Kolkata on sites like Weather Atlas.

Average Temperature in Calcutta, India

Calcutta, known as Kolkata, experiences a tropical wet-and-dry climate. This means the temperatures vary significantly throughout the year.

Monthly Temperature Averages

May records the highest average temperatures, with highs reaching around 95°F and lows near 79°F. It’s also common for temperatures to exceed 100°F during this month.

Coldest Month

January is the coldest month, with an average low temperature of 61.6°F and highs around 80.6°F. This makes it relatively mild compared to other parts of the year.

Variations in Night Temperatures

Night temperatures can drop to around 48.2°F in rare cases in February, although average lows are typically higher.

The cold season, from December to early February, sees average daily highs below 80°F.

Temperature fluctuations are less extreme in the rainy season, with highs in July about 89.4°F and lows around 79.3°F.

Average Precipitation in Calcutta, India

Calcutta, also known as Kolkata, experiences significant variations in rainfall throughout the year. The city has a tropical wet-and-dry climate, resulting in distinct wet and dry periods.

Average Rainfall in Calcutta, India

Rainfall in Calcutta is unevenly distributed across the year, with the majority occurring during the monsoon season.

From June to September, the city receives the highest levels of rainfall, significantly contributing to its annual average of around 62 inches.

July is typically the wettest month, with approximately 14 inches of rain.

Conversely, December and January are the driest months, often seeing less than an inch of rainfall.

These significant rainfall amounts during the monsoon contribute to lush greenery and waterlogged streets, characteristic of this time.

Average Snow in Calcutta, India

Snow is not a feature of Calcutta’s climate. The city, lying in a tropical zone, experiences no snowfall throughout the year. The temperatures rarely drop low enough to allow for snow.

Even during the coolest months, such as December and January, the average low temperature remains around 66°F.

This warm climate means outdoor activities can occur throughout the year without the disruption that snow would bring.

For regions that do experience snowfall, there’s useful information on snow and ice as needed. However, for Calcutta, the concern remains primarily about rainfall patterns.

Average Sun in Calcutta, India

Calcutta has significant variations in sunshine throughout the year, with different seasons affecting daily sunlight hours.

Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Calcutta, India

Calcutta receives varying amounts of solar energy each month.

January has the least daily sunshine hours, with an average of 7.83 hours.

By May, sunshine hours increase significantly, making it one of the sunniest months.

During the monsoon season, typically June to September, sunshine hours are reduced due to increased cloud cover and rainfall.

By contrast, the winter months, particularly December and January, offer more consistent sunlight.

This data provides a useful guide for planning activities requiring optimal sunlight in Calcutta.

Average Humidity in Calcutta, India

The average monthly relative humidity in Calcutta varies significantly throughout the year.

In July, the city experiences its highest humidity levels at 83%.

March, on the other hand, has the lowest humidity at 51%.

Here is a table showing the average monthly relative humidity:

Relative humidity in Calcutta is generally higher during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September.

The average annual percentage of humidity in Calcutta is 69%. This makes the city humid for much of the year, but especially during the summer months.

Understanding the humidity patterns in Calcutta is crucial for residents and visitors. It can affect comfort levels, health, and even daily activities.

Average Wind in Calcutta, India

Calcutta experiences varying wind speeds throughout the year.

The windier part of the year lasts for 5.3 months, starting from March 24 to September 1.

During this period, the average wind speed exceeds 7.4 miles per hour.

The windiest month is June, with an average hourly wind speed of 9.8 miles per hour.

The calmer period spans 6.7 months, from September 1 to March 24. This time generally sees lower wind speeds.

Monthly Wind Speeds

March to September is a time of stronger winds. People in Calcutta can expect frequent windy days during these months. The wind speeds make outdoor activities challenging.

In contrast, during September to March, calmer winds prevail, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities.

Using meters per second as an additional measure, June’s peak winds convert to roughly 4.4 m/s, while December’s calm winds are about 2.0 m/s.

This wind pattern plays a role in the climate and weather experience in Calcutta, affecting daily life and activities year-round.

Average Air Quality in Calcutta, India

Calcutta’s air quality varies throughout the year. It is important to consider factors such as pressure, cloud cover, and the UV index when discussing air quality.

Monthly Average Air Quality Index (AQI)

Important Considerations

• Pressure: Air pressure can influence AQI levels. Higher pressure often traps pollutants close to the ground, worsening air quality.
• Cloud Cover: Cloud cover can affect the dispersion of air pollutants. Less cloud cover usually means better air dispersion.
• UV Index: A high UV index can increase the production of ground-level ozone, a significant air pollutant.

Historical Weather Data

Calcutta experiences varying humidity and wind patterns which can impact the air quality. Reviewing historical weather data helps in understanding these patterns:

In the summer, higher humidity and wind speeds usually help in reducing air pollutant concentration. In contrast, winter’s lower humidity and wind speed could worsen air quality. Understanding these trends is crucial for monitoring and improving Calcutta’s air quality throughout the year.

Topography of Calcutta, India

Calcutta, now known as Kolkata, is located in the eastern part of India.

The city is mostly flat with an average elevation of 30 feet above sea level. It lies on the lower Ganges Delta and is primarily a low-lying area.

The Hoogly River flows adjacent to the city. This river is a distributary of the Ganges and plays a significant role in the city’s geography.

Kolkata’s surface movement and urban setup are shaped by its proximity to the river. The surroundings include wetlands and riverine features. This terrain is crucial for the city’s drainage and flooding patterns.

To the east of the city, a series of marshes and wetlands are found. These wetlands are essential for biodiversity and act as natural buffers against floods.

The southern parts of Kolkata have a slightly higher elevation. This area includes undulating landforms that add minor elevation variation within the city.

The topography influences urban planning, water management, and infrastructure development in Kolkata. This makes understanding the region’s geography vital for sustainable growth.

Land around Kolkata is fertile due to the alluvial soil deposited by the river. This soil supports agriculture in rural fringes near the city.

Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Calcutta, India

Calcutta, also known as Kolkata, experiences a tropical savanna climate with a distinct dry and rainy season. The city faces several extreme weather events throughout the year.

Heatwaves

During the dry season, temperatures can soar above 100°F, causing significant discomfort and health risks. These heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change.

Monsoon and Heavy Rainfall

From June to September, Calcutta experiences the monsoon season. The city can receive heavy rainfall, leading to flooding and waterlogging.

Cyclones

Cyclones in the Bay of Bengal often affect Calcutta. These storms can bring strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding.

Hailstorms

Though less common, hailstorms do occur, mainly during the transition periods between seasons. These events can cause damage to property and crops.

Climate Change Impact

Climate change is making these extreme weather events more frequent and severe. According to reports, such as one by Nature, India witnessed extreme weather almost every day in certain periods, impacting millions of lives.

Understanding these weather patterns helps in preparing for and mitigating the effects of such extreme events in Calcutta.

Best Time of the Year to Visit Calcutta, India

The best time to visit Calcutta, India, is during the winter when the weather is cool and dry. Each season brings different experiences and weather conditions, impacting travel plans.

What is Calcutta, India Like in Spring

Spring in Calcutta starts in March and lasts through April. Temperatures begin to rise, with March seeing averages around 79°F (26°C) and April reaching up to 89.6°F (32°C). Humidity also starts to increase, making outdoor activities more challenging as the season progresses.

Spring can be a good time if you prefer fewer tourists and can handle warmer weather. Rainfall is generally low in March but starts to pick up in April, although it is not as heavy as monsoon rains. Early spring tends to be more comfortable compared to the hotter days towards the end of the season. Make sure to stay hydrated and wear light clothing.

What is Calcutta, India Like in Summer

Summers in Calcutta are hot and humid, lasting from May to June. Average highs often exceed 95°F (35°C), with some days surpassing 104°F (40°C). This period is not ideal for sightseeing due to extreme heat.

Humidity during summer is also very high, making it feel even hotter. The city experiences dry spells, but early June marks the beginning of the monsoon season. Heavy rains provide some relief from the heat but can disrupt travel plans. If you decide to visit during summer, carry an umbrella and stay indoors during peak afternoon hours.

What is Calcutta, India Like in Fall

Fall, encompassing August to October, offers a mix of weather conditions. August remains hot with temperatures around 89.8°F (32.1°C) and significant rainfall from the monsoons. By September, temperatures start to drop slightly, and by October, the average is around 86.5°F (30.3°C).

Rainfall also decreases significantly from August to October, providing some relief. This season can be pleasant, especially in October, when the weather is cooler and drier. It is a favorable time for festivals and outdoor activities as the monsoon rains taper off. October is particularly beautiful as it leads into the winter season.

What is Calcutta, India Like in Winter

Winter is the best time to visit Calcutta, typically from November through February. The weather is cool, with average temperatures ranging from 54°F (12°C) to 77°F (25°C).

Humidity is low, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

December and January are the coolest months, but the entire season is comfortable. Tourist attractions are less crowded, and festivals like Durga Puja add cultural richness to the experience.

Winter mornings can be chilly, so it’s advisable to carry a light sweater or jacket.

Overall, this season provides the most favorable weather for a visit.