kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Kolkata, 20 May 2026: Life in Kolkata and across south Bengal has turned extremely uncomfortable as a combination of radiant sunshine and high humidity is creating a suffocating situation for residents. Although actual temperatures have not spiked far above normal, the intense moisture in the air has dramatically increased the “feels-like” temperature, pushing the heat stress level much higher than the official figure. This sticky, vapour-laden atmosphere has left people struggling to breathe and moving about in great discomfort throughout the day as relief from rain remains absent.

Despite the thermometer not showing extreme highs in many areas — with maximums hovering around the seasonal average — humidity levels in Kolkata have soared, causing the perceived heat to feel significantly harsher than the actual temperature. In parts of the city, the real-feel temperature has been reported close to or exceeding 50 °C due to this oppressive humidity, even with recorded mercury readings in the mid-30s Celsius — a condition similar to what the meteorological department describes as a dangerous combination of heat and moisture.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) says that in the coming week there will not be any marked change in temperature across West Bengal. There is a forecast of scattered thunderstorms and Kalbaisakhi-type pre-monsoon systems in parts of South Bengal — with districts like Hooghly, Purulia, Bankura, and North 24 Parganas expected to see intermittent rain or gusty winds — but these are unlikely to bring significant, enduring relief from the heat and humidity.

Residents are waking up to high minimum temperatures well above normal, adding to the discomfort, as nights provide little respite. The relentless humid conditions, fueled by moisture drawn from the Bay of Bengal, are continuing to make outdoor activity difficult and increase the overall sense of fatigue and lethargy among people.

Kolkata and neighbouring districts are currently not under any extreme heatwave classification based on temperature alone, the oppressive humidity, elevated feels-like temperatures, and lack of widespread rain are creating a deeply uncomfortable environment that meteorologists warn may continue for the next several days.