Kolkata, 14 January (H.S.) :

The weather across West Bengal, including Kolkata, remained dry and pleasant on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, with a mild winter chill continuing. According to the Meteorological Department, the sky over Kolkata is expected to remain mainly clear over the next 24 hours, though light fog or haze may prevail during the early morning hours before clearing as the day progresses.

The maximum temperature in the state capital is likely to hover around 23 degrees Celsius, about 1.5 degrees below normal. The minimum temperature has been recorded between 13 and 14 degrees Celsius, slightly lower than average, resulting in a mild chill during the morning and late night hours. The weather department said on Wednesday morning that similar conditions are expected to persist for the next two to three days.

Last week, Kolkata experienced a sharper cold spell when the minimum temperature dipped close to 10 degrees Celsius. However, on Makar Sankranti, the minimum temperature remained around 14 degrees, making the cold less severe.

Humidity levels are also expected to remain moderate, with maximum relative humidity around 80 percent and minimum levels near 45 percent. No rainfall was recorded in Kolkata or adjoining areas during the past 24 hours.

Overall, weather conditions across West Bengal are expected to remain favourable on Makar Sankranti. With clear skies and mild winter chill, devotees continued to take holy dips at Gangasagar and other riverine ghats amid comfortable weather conditions.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh