Will the Cold Spell Return in Bengal?
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Synopsis
As temperatures fluctuate in Kolkata, the cold spell has made an unexpected return. This article delves into the latest temperature trends, forecasts, and the impact of the chilling weather on various districts in Bengal.
Key Takeaways
- Cold temperatures are returning to Kolkata and south Bengal.
- The minimum temperature in Kolkata dropped to 12.4 degrees Celsius.
- Kalyani overtook Sriniketan as the coldest spot in south Bengal.
- A fog warning has been issued for multiple districts.
- The cold wave is expected to continue through Makar Sankranti.
Kolkata, Jan 12 (NationPress) Despite an almost four degrees Celsius increase in the minimum temperature recorded in Kolkata and various districts of south Bengal on Sunday, a cold spell unexpectedly returned on Monday as temperatures took a dip once more.
On Sunday, Kolkata's minimum temperature had significantly risen to 15 degrees Celsius. However, by Monday morning, it fell to 12.4 degrees Celsius, which is 1.4 degrees below the normal range.
In addition, the maximum temperature in Kolkata on Sunday remained below 23.9 degrees Celsius, registering 0.9 degrees below normal levels.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) located in Alipore has issued warnings for a severe cold wave affecting the state.
“There is no indication of relief from the cold at present. The biting chill is expected to persist through Makar Sankranti (January 14), with no significant temperature changes anticipated over the next four to five days,” stated an official from RMC.
This suggests that temperatures will continue to remain below normal for the foreseeable future.
Sriniketan in Birbhum district has long been recognized as the coldest area in south Bengal, consistently registering temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, often around 6 degrees Celsius.
Just two days prior, temperatures in Sriniketan dipped to 6.5 degrees Celsius. However, on Monday, Kalyani in Nadia district surpassed Sriniketan, becoming the coldest spot in south Bengal.
On Monday, Kalyani recorded a minimum temperature of 7.5 degrees Celsius, making it the second coldest location in West Bengal after Darjeeling, where temperatures fell to 3.6 degrees Celsius.
Additional temperatures recorded on Monday included 10.8 degrees Celsius in Sriniketan, 9.8 degrees Celsius in Jhargram, 9.2 degrees Celsius in Asansol, 10.7 degrees Celsius in Basirhat, 10 degrees Celsius in Suri, 10 degrees Celsius in Barrackpore, 11.4 degrees Celsius in Purulia, 10.8 degrees Celsius in Burdwan, 10 degrees Celsius in Berhampore, 10.4 degrees Celsius in Canning, and 10.1 degrees Celsius in Bankura.
A fog advisory has also been issued statewide.
Light to moderate fog is expected in the south Bengal districts, which may reduce visibility to between 999 metres and 200 metres.
A dense fog warning has been issued for northern districts, where visibility may plummet to as low as 50 metres in Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, and North Dinajpur due to fog.
Point of View
I believe that the unpredictable weather patterns we are currently witnessing highlight the need for increased awareness and preparedness among citizens. The return of the cold spell serves as a reminder that we must remain vigilant and informed about our climate, particularly during the winter months.
NationPress
13/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current minimum temperature in Kolkata?
As of Monday, the minimum temperature in Kolkata is recorded at 12.4 degrees Celsius.
Why did the cold spell return?
The cold spell returned unexpectedly after a brief rise in temperatures, as forecasts from the Regional Meteorological Centre suggest ongoing cold conditions.
What areas are experiencing the lowest temperatures?
Currently, Kalyani in Nadia district has surpassed Sriniketan as the coldest area in south Bengal, with a temperature of 7.5 degrees Celsius.
Is there any fog warning in place?
Yes, a fog advisory has been issued across the state, with dense fog expected particularly in northern districts.
How long will the cold wave last?
The cold wave is expected to persist at least until Makar Sankranti on January 14, with no significant temperature changes in the following days.
