Western disturbances blocking cold winds, Bengal temperature rises with Kolkata at 16-17 degress

Even in the middle of December, residents of Kolkata and West Bengal are still waiting for the real innings of winter, with minimum temperatures hovering around 15-17 degrees Celsius instead of dropping lower as expected. Today morning, Kolkata recorded a minimum of about 16.7 degrees, which is 1.6 degrees above normal, surprising many who hoped for colder days before Christmas. Reportedly, a series of western disturbances over northwest India for blocking the usual cold northerly winds from reaching the region.

These weather systems, including active ones near Jammu-Kashmir and a new one forming nearby, along with a circulation over Assam, are keeping the air warmer and preventing a sharp fall in temperatures. The weather office says this pattern will continue for the coming week, with little change in minimum temperatures and no strong cold spell in sight right now. Bengal's western districts like Bankura, Purulia may see lows between 12-14 degrees.

North Bengal could dip to 9-13 degrees, and hilly Darjeeling's temperature will be between 5-8 degrees. However, there is some good news for winter lovers: a gradual drop in mercury is likely after Christmas, bringing cooler conditions toward the end of the year. Light morning fog is possible in northern districts, but no dense fog warnings have been issued. For now, enjoy the mild weather, but keep warm clothes ready for the chill that should arrive soon.