West Bengal is currently witnessing a sharp contrast in temperatures. Early mornings are dipping below 20 degrees Celsius, while daytime readings are climbing past 30 degrees. The shift between a mild chill at dawn and summer-like afternoons has left residents adjusting twice a day. Meteorologists now warn that temperatures may climb further as March approaches.
Low pressure over Bay of Bengal
A low-pressure system has formed over the Bay of Bengal. Light rain is likely on February 23 and 24 in parts of East Midnapore bordering Odisha and in some areas of Jhargram. Coastal districts adjacent to Odisha have a higher possibility of rainfall, while several districts of South Bengal may experience cloudy skies.
The existing low pressure over the southwest Bay is weakening, and a fresh system is expected to form over the southeast Bay of Bengal. It is forecast to move north-northwest and strengthen within the next 24 hours.
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Kolkata: Warmer days ahead
According to the Alipore Met Office, both maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to rise from February 20 onward. A three-degree Celsius increase is likely across districts over the next few days.
On Saturday, Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 19.5 degrees Celsius. On Friday, the maximum stood at 31.6 degrees Celsius, which was 1.1 degrees above normal. Humidity levels ranged between 82 per cent and 40 per cent. By midweek, the city’s daytime temperature may touch 33 to 34 degrees Celsius, suggesting a warmer Dol and Holi this year.
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North Bengal: Foggy start, rising heat
Districts including Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar and North Dinajpur are likely to witness light to moderate fog for the next two to three days. However, skies are expected to clear as the day progresses.
Interestingly, daytime temperatures in North Bengal have been higher than in the south. Bagdogra recorded 33.6 degrees Celsius, while Jalpaiguri touched 33 degrees. The winter feel is expected to fade gradually across the region by the end of February.
With dry conditions prevailing in South Bengal and temperatures set to climb, the state appears to be transitioning steadily toward pre-summer heat.
