Kolkata's Spring Vanishes: Heat Wave Arrives Early

Kolkata is experiencing a premature summer as its spring season has become exceptionally brief, a phenomenon attributed by meteorologists to climate change. The transition from winter to summer, typically a pleasant period, is now abrupt and short-lived, sometimes barely noticeable. This year, following a prolonged winter with record low temperatures, the city is already feeling the heat.

Maximum temperatures on Tuesday reached 33.1°C and are forecasted to hover around 33°C by Thursday, slightly above normal. While the current day temperatures are only marginally elevated, the impact is amplified by the preceding cold spell, which saw a record low of 18°C in early January. Night temperatures have also fluctuated, with some nights being significantly above average.

The prevailing dry westerly and north-westerly winds suggest that drastic temperature hikes are not expected in the immediate week, with maximums likely between 32°C and 34°C. However, meteorological officials are monitoring a potential system that could alter wind patterns by next week, possibly bringing thunderstorm activity to parts of south Bengal.