§  Kolkata Hits Season’s Lowest: 18.2°C

§  Why Did Temperature Drop So Suddenly.? Western Winds Explained

§  Regional Breakdown: Where’s the Coldest Weather in Bengal.?

§  5-Day Weather Forecast: Daily Breakdown for Kolkata & West Bengal

§  Fog Alert: North Bengal & Darjeeling Weather Pattern

§  Temperature Outlook: How Long Will Winter Last.?

§  Health & Lifestyle Impact: Cold Weather Preparation Guide

Kolkata: Bengalis are wrapping up winter wardrobes as the temperature has already plunged 3 degrees Celsius below the seasonal normal. The Alipore Meteorological Department recorded Kolkata’s lowest night temperature of the season at 18.2°C on Sunday night—the first significant drop signaling the onset of winter. Across South Bengal, minimum temperatures are hovering 1-2°C below normal, while western districts are experiencing even sharper cold with minimum temperatures threatening to dip below 15°C in the coming days. The relentless western winds sweeping across Bengal are primarily responsible for this temperature nosedive but residents should brace for warming afternoons that quickly evaporate the morning chill. Here’s everything you need to know about Bengal’s weather situation, what meteorologists are predicting and how long this chilly spell will persist.

PART 1: THE TEMPERATURE CRASH – What Happened.?

·       Kolkata Hits Season’s Lowest: 18.2°C

o   The Alipure Meteorological Department officially recorded 18.2°C as Kolkata’s minimum night temperature on Sunday—the lowest temperature of the 2025-26 season so far. This reading is precisely 3 degrees Celsius below the seasonal normal, signaling the beginning of Bengal’s winter season after weeks of delayed onset.

o   The abrupt temperature plunge marked a dramatic shift from the preceding warm nights when cyclones and low-pressure systems had prevented winter’s arrival. Weather experts attribute this sudden change to the dissipation of the cyclonic circulation that had been blocking winter’s progression into eastern India.

·       Why Did Temperature Drop So Suddenly.?

o   The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued forecasts starting November 7, 2025, predicting this exact scenario. According to their two-week forecast bulletin, “Mainly dry weather likely to prevail over North & South Bengal during Week-1 (November 7-13, 2025). Minimum temperature is likely to fall by 2-3°C at many places over districts of West Bengal during 1st half of Week-1.”

·       The forecast proved accurate. Here’s what triggered the temperature collapse

o   Factor 1: Cyclonic Circulation Dispersal
The upper-air cyclonic circulation that had lingered over the east-central Bay of Bengal (remnant of the recent well-marked low-pressure area) finally moved southwestwards toward the southeast Bay of Bengal around November 11-12. This dissipation removed the weather system that had been blocking the western winds.

o   Factor 2: Relentless Western Winds
Once the cyclonic circulation weakened, cold, dry northwestern and western winds began flowing unobstructed across Bengal. These winds originate from the Himalayan foothills and snow-covered regions, carrying significantly lower temperatures. The IMD bulletin notes: “Mainly dry northwesterly to northerly winds prevailing at lower levels.”

o   Factor 3: Clear Skies Facilitating Rapid Cooling
With dry weather dominating, cloud cover has disappeared, allowing maximum radiation escape during night hours. Without clouds acting as a thermal blanket, ground heat radiates directly into space, causing sharp temperature drops at night.

o   Factor 4: Extended Night Duration in November
By mid-November, India is shifting toward the winter solstice (December 21). Nights are becoming longer—currently lasting approximately 11 hours—allowing extended periods for ground cooling.

PART 2: REGIONAL BREAKDOWN – Where’s It Coldest?

South Bengal: 1-2°C Below Normal

Across all South Bengal districts, night temperatures are 1-2°C below seasonal normal. This includes Kolkata, South 24 Parganas, East Medinipur, West Medinipur, Bankura and Birbhum districts.

·       Kolkata City Specifics,

o   Current minimum: 18°C (forecast holds for next 5-7 days)

o   Normal minimum for November: ~21°C

o   Deviation: 3°C below normal

o   Daytime maximum: 28-29°C (normal for season)

o   7-day forecast: Minimum temperatures expected to remain at 18-19°C through November 15

·       Coastal and Adjacent Districts,
Light fog is common in early mornings over coastal districts like South 24 Parganas, East Medinipur, and areas adjacent to the Bay of Bengal. This fog typically dissipates by 8-9 AM as daytime heating begins.

·       North Bengal: Similar Cold with Heavier Fog

North Bengal districts are experiencing comparable temperature drops—1-2°C below normal—but with an added weather feature: heavier fog concentrations.

·       Districts Affected

o   Darjeeling

o   Kalimpong

o   Alipurduar

o   Coochbehar

o   Jalpaiguri

o   Northern parts of Dinajpur and Malda

·       Specific Weather Conditions
The forenoon (6 AM to 10 AM) shows heavy fog in these areas, particularly in,

o   Darjeeling district (including the hill station itself)

o   Kalimpong region (higher-elevation areas most affected)

o   Mountain valleys in the Terai and Himalayan foothills

The mountainous terrain of North Bengal facilitates fog formation as moisture-laden air rises, cools and condenses into visible fog particles. Visibility can drop to 2-3 km in severely affected areas, potentially impacting vehicle movement on hill roads.

Positive Aspect for North Bengal: Daytime conditions remain sunny and pleasant. Clear blue skies dominate during 10 AM to 4 PM, with no rainfall anticipated.

Western Districts: The Coldest Zone (Below 15°C Possible)

Western districts of South Bengal are experiencing the most severe cold,

·       Expected minimum: 12-15°C (some forecasts suggest possibility of dropping below 15°C)

·       Current minimum: 16-17°C (as of November 10)

·       Deviation from normal: 4-5°C below seasonal average

·       Districts Most Affected

o   Purulia

o   East Burdwan (East Bardhaman)

o   West Burdwan (West Bardhaman)

o   Bankura

o   Jhargram

o   West Medinipur

These western districts face the full force of northwestern winds because they lack the moderating influence of Bay of Bengal moisture. The elevated terrain in these districts (particularly Purulia’s plateaus) allows rapid heat loss.

PART 3: THE WEATHER PATTERN – Western Winds Dominate

What Are Western Winds.?

·       Western winds sweeping across Bengal originate from two primary sources,

·       Himalayan Foothills: Cold air masses originating from high-altitude regions of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and northern Haryana descend southeastward.

·       Clear Sky Radiation: Without cloud cover, nighttime temperatures plummet rapidly, creating denser, heavier cold air that flows from northwest to southeast.

·       These winds typically move at 10-15 km/h but can intensify to 20-25 km/h on particularly cold mornings.

Characteristics of Current Western Wind Pattern

·       Dry Nature
The western winds bring absolutely dry air—humidity levels are dropping from the monsoon-season highs of 70-80% to comfortable 40-50% levels. This dryness prevents morning fog formation in most areas except coastal and mountainous regions.

·       Persistence
The India Meteorological Department forecasts that this western wind pattern will remain dominant for the next 4-5 days (through approximately November 15). After that, a gradual moderation is expected.

Wind Speed Distribution Across Bengal

Coastal areas: 8-10 km/h (slower due to water-body moderation)

·       Plains: 10-15 km/h

·       Foothills and elevated regions: 15-20 km/h

·       Why the Pattern Shifts During the Day

·       Morning Phase (5-9 AM)
Western winds are at peak strength due to overnight radiative cooling creating higher pressure gradients. This is when temperatures reach their lowest point. Wind speeds are typically 10-15 km/h.

·       Late Morning to Afternoon (9 AM - 4 PM)
As the sun rises and ground heating begins, wind patterns shift. The pressure difference between cooler upper atmosphere and warming ground weakens the western wind flow. By noon, the wind speed drops to 3-5 km/h and afternoon temperatures climb back to 27-29°C.

·       This explains why mornings are bitterly cold while afternoons are pleasantly warm—a characteristic feature of Bengal’s early winter season.

·       Evening Phase (4-9 PM)
As the sun sets, rapid cooling recommences, and northwestern winds strengthen again. By 9-10 PM, temperatures drop back to 18-20°C range and the cycle repeats.

PART 4: NO RAINFALL EXPECTED – Completely Dry Spell

Why No Rain.?

The cyclonic circulation systems that had brought periodic showers throughout October-early November have completely dissipated. Two competing systems that previously influenced Bengal’s weather have moved away,

·       Remnant of well-marked low-pressure area: Moved to southeast Bay of Bengal (12+ km away)

·       Typhoon Kalmaegi remnant: Shifted toward North Andaman Sea as an upper-air circulation

·       Without active weather systems, the IMD officially forecasts: “Mainly dry weather likely to prevail over both North & South Bengal” through mid-November.

·       5-Day Forecast: No Rain Expected

o   November 11 (Tuesday): Dry - 0% chance of rain

o   November 12 (Wednesday): Dry - 0% chance of rain

o   November 13 (Thursday): Dry - 0% chance of rain

o   November 14 (Friday): Dry - 0% chance of rain

o   November 15 (Saturday): Dry - 0% chance of rain

PART 5: TEMPERATURE OUTLOOK – How Long Will Winter Last.?

·       Short-Term Forecast (5-7 Days)

Immediate Outlook: Minimum temperatures expected to remain at 17-19°C in Kolkata and South Bengal and 12-15°C in western districts through November 15-16 (Saturday).

Stability: The India Meteorological Department notes: “No significant change in 2nd half of Week-1” (after November 10), meaning temperatures will hold relatively steady for the next 4-5 days before any moderation.

·       Medium-Term Forecast (Week 2: November 14-20)

The IMD predicts a “gradual seasonal fall in minimum temperature likely during week-2 both over North & South Bengal.”

What This Means: Instead of sharp drops, temperatures will gradually decline over a 5-7 day period. Minimum temperatures expected to drop from current 18°C to approximately 15-16°C by late November.

Timing of Further Decline: Most meteorologists expect the next significant temperature drop around November 18-22, when another weather system may influence North India and peripherally affect Bengal.

·       Long-Term Outlook (December Onward)

The IMD forecasts that “winter may come in earnest by the beginning of December.” This means:

·       Late November (Nov 25-30): Temperatures may stabilize at 14-16°C (minimum)

·       Early December (Dec 1-15): Further decline expected, with minimums reaching 10-12°C in South Bengal and 5-8°C in North Bengal/western districts

·       Mid-December onward: The full winter chill typical of December-January will establish, with rare instances of temperatures dropping to single digits in western districts

PART 6: WHAT TO EXPECT – Day by Day

·       Morning Experience (5-8 AM)

o   For Next 5 Days:
Wake up to chilly conditions with temperatures at 18-20°C. The Western winds are strongest during this period. You’ll feel noticeably colder than the actual temperature due to wind chill effects.

·       In Western Districts: Temperatures will hover at 12-15°C, requiring warm clothes even for quick morning tasks.

North Bengal: Thick fog will reduce visibility to 2-3 km in many areas. Drivers should exercise caution during morning commutes. Fog typically clears by 9-10 AM as sun strengthens.

·       Daytime Experience (9 AM - 4 PM)

Temperatures will climb rapidly to 27-29°C by noon. The Western winds lose their force as ground heating increases. Afternoons will feel pleasant and warm—no need for heavy clothing. This is excellent weather for outdoor activities like gardening, construction, or outdoor sports.

Air Quality: The dry air and clear skies mean excellent air quality and visibility (10+ km). This is great for air pollution reduction compared to the foggy monsoon season.

·       Evening and Night (4-9 PM)

As sunset approaches (around 4:55 PM in mid-November), temperatures begin their descent. By 8-9 PM, temperatures will drop to 20-22°C, and by 10 PM, they’ll reach 18-20°C again.

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PART 7: HEALTH & LIFESTYLE IMPACT

Who Is Most Affected.?

Vulnerable Groups

·       Elderly citizens (age 60+)

·       Young children (below 5 years)

·       Individuals with respiratory conditions (asthma, chronic bronchitis)

·       People with cardiovascular diseases

Recommended Actions

·       Wear light woolen layers that can be easily removed during warm afternoons

·       Stay indoors early mornings (5-8 AM) if possible

·       Avoid sudden temperature changes (don’t rush from 18°C morning to 29°C afternoon without gradual acclimation)

·       Stay hydrated despite reduced thirst (cold weather reduces thirst sensation)

Sleep Comfort

Nights will feel comfortable at 18°C—perfect for deep sleep without excessive AC usage. This is ideal sleeping temperature (below 20°C promotes faster sleep onset and deeper sleep cycles).

Agricultural Impact

·       Positive Aspects

o   Temperature drop will reduce pest activity

o   Cooler nights preserve vegetable quality

o   Water demand for crops reduces sharply

·       Precautions

o   Farmers growing frost-sensitive crops should monitor weather closely

o   Western districts should watch for possible frost formation after November 20

PART 8: METEOROLOGICAL DATA & TECHNICAL DETAILS

Alipure Weather Station Readings

Official Data Point (As of November 10, 2025 - 5:30 AM)

·       Temperature: 18.2°C (record low for season)

·       Humidity: 72%

·       Wind Speed: 12 km/h (WNW direction)

·       Pressure: 1012 mb (high pressure indicating dry weather)

·       Visibility: 10 km (excellent)

·       Cloud Cover: 0% (completely clear)

·       Comparison with Historical Data

November 10, 2025 is the coldest morning in recent years for this specific date.

PART 9: WHAT METEOROLOGISTS SAY

IMD Official Statement

The India Meteorological Department’s official forecast (issued November 7, 2025) states,

“Mainly dry weather likely to prevail both over North & South Bengal during Week-1. Minimum temperature is likely to fall by 2-3°C at many places over districts of West Bengal during 1st half of Week-1 and no significant change in 2nd half of Week-1. Overall Minimum temperatures likely to be near normal with slight positive departure over North Bengal and near normal with slight negative departure over South Bengal during week-1.”

Weather Analyst Predictions

Independent meteorologists confirm the IMD forecast, noting that this cold spell is not unusual for early November but rather “the delayed onset of winter after cyclone-blocked patterns prevented cooling from late September to early November.”

PART 10: CONCLUSION – How to Prepare

·       Immediate Actions (Today - November 11)

Bring Out Winter Clothes: Light sweaters, shawls, and mild winter wear will be needed for early mornings

Check Heating Systems: Ensure heaters and warm water supply systems are functional

Plan Morning Schedules: Avoid prolonged outdoor exposure between 5-8 AM

·       Next 5-7 Days

Temperatures will likely remain 1-2°C above current lows. Expect mornings at 18-19°C and afternoons at 28-29°C. This pleasant pattern will continue through approximately November 15.

·       Beyond November 15

Watch for further temperature decline in the third week of November. By late November, morning temperatures may drop to 14-16°C. By early December, expect true winter conditions with minimums at 10-12°C.

FINAL WORDS

Bengal’s winter has officially arrived, 2-3 weeks earlier than the typical mid-November onset. The combination of dissipated cyclonic circulations and strong northwestern winds has triggered this sudden cold spell. While the current 18°C mornings are pleasant—far from the harsh 5-8°C common in December-January—residents should prepare for the extended 5-month winter season ahead.

The warmest afternoons (27-29°C) contrast sharply with chilly mornings (18°C), so dress in layers!

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