Kolkata records warmest Christmas in a decade with 18.2°C as rain and depression delay winter

Kolkata recorded its warmest Christmas in a decade on December 25, 2024, with temperatures reaching 18.2°C, surpassing the previous record of 18.1°C set on December 25, 2015. The usual winter chill associated with this time of year has been notably absent, with the city experiencing unseasonably warm temperatures. December in Kolkata generally sees temperatures drop to more comfortable, cooler levels, but this year, residents are faced with warmer conditions that resemble early autumn rather than the expected winter.

The primary factor behind the unusually warm weather is the presence of a persistent depression over the Bay of Bengal. This depression, which has been lingering for over ten days, has significantly influenced the weather patterns in Kolkata and surrounding areas. The depression has been responsible for an extended period of cloud cover and sporadic rainfall. Despite it being the peak of winter, the cloud cover has trapped moisture and kept temperatures from dropping to their usual winter levels. On Christmas Day, light rain showers were observed throughout the city, further delaying the arrival of the typical winter chill.

In addition to the depression, a western disturbance has been contributing to the warm weather. These disturbances are a common feature in winter months and usually bring moisture-laden winds to the region, leading to increased cloud cover and higher-than-normal temperatures. The western disturbance typically affects the northern parts of India but can have far-reaching effects, including in Kolkata, where it prevents the usual cold air from settling over the city. This has further delayed the expected drop in temperature that winter enthusiasts eagerly anticipate during the holiday season.

Historically, Kolkata’s coldest Christmas occurred in 2018, when the temperature dropped to 12.9°C. However, this year’s temperature of 18.2°C marks a significant departure from the norm. The 2024 Christmas temperature is the highest recorded in the city in the past decade, surpassing both 2015 and the average temperature for the month of December. While the temperature has remained high, meteorologists continue to monitor the depression and western disturbance, with no immediate relief in sight. The warm conditions are expected to persist for several more days, prolonging the delay in the onset of winter.