Bengal weather alert: Cold wave tightens grip with dense fog, severe AQI in Kolkata; snowfall likely in Darjeeling

A sharp cold wave has tightened its grip over West Bengal, with dense fog, falling temperatures and worsening air quality disrupting daily life across the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the chilly spell is likely to continue throughout the week, with foggy conditions affecting visibility and travel.

Kolkata records coldest December morning of the season

Kolkata woke up to its coldest December morning this season, with minimum temperatures dipping to around 13–14°C. The maximum temperature remained between 22–24°C, while moderate to dense fog reduced visibility during the early hours.

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The IMD said mornings are expected to remain foggy until at least January 3, with New Year’s Day likely to see temperatures hovering around 15°C.

Severe cold grips sub-Himalayan West Bengal

Sub-Himalayan districts reported significantly lower temperatures as the cold wave intensified. Darjeeling recorded a minimum temperature of just 5.4°C, raising the possibility of light snowfall in higher reaches. Coochbehar saw temperatures drop to 14.3°C, while Bankura recorded a chilly 9.3°C.

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The IMD has issued dense fog warnings for northern districts including Darjeeling, Coochbehar and North Dinajpur through December 31.

Kolkata AQI turns severe amid rising pollution levels

Air quality in Kolkata worsened sharply, with pollution levels rising alongside falling temperatures and dense fog. The poor air quality has raised health concerns, particularly for children, the elderly and people with respiratory conditions.

Dense fog reduces visibility across Bengal

Dense fog blanketed large parts of West Bengal, with visibility dropping to as low as 50–200 metres in several areas during the morning hours. The IMD said fog conditions are likely to persist during night-time and early mornings over the next few days.

Meteorologists warned that reduced visibility could worsen further as temperatures continue to fall.

Foggy weather likely to disrupt air, rail and road traffic

The ongoing fog spell is expected to significantly disrupt air, rail and road traffic, particularly during night and early morning hours. Delays in flights and trains cannot be ruled out, while road commuters have been advised to exercise caution.

Authorities have urged people to stay updated with weather advisories and plan travel accordingly as winter conditions continue to intensify across the state.

Inputs from agencies