Last updated: January 18, 2025
West Bengal, India, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by Koppen-Geiger classifications of Cwa (humid subtropical), Aw (tropical wet and dry), and Cwb (subtropical highland). The region experiences notable temperature fluctuations, with minimum averages reaching as low as 1°C (33°F) in February, soaring to an impressive maximum of 45°C (113°F) during the peak of summer in May. The annual average temperature hovers around 26°C (79°F), reflecting the influence of seasonal changes and distinct climatic zones within the state. This climatic variability significantly impacts agriculture, water resources, and the overall lifestyle of its inhabitants.
West Bengal experiences a pronounced seasonal temperature pattern, with winter months from December to February characterized by cooler temperatures, where January registers a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and averages around 18°C (64°F). February marks a gradual warming trend, culminating in peak summer months from March to May, which exhibit increasingly high temperatures—with May reaching maximums of 45°C (113°F). The onset of the monsoon in June brings a slight decrease in temperatures, though humidity rises, with minimums averaging 17°C (63°F) and maximums around 43°C (110°F). The following months of July and August maintain mild conditions but remain humid, averaging around 29°C (85°F). Post-monsoon, September to November transitions to a cooler and drier atmosphere, with October showcasing maximums of 37°C (98°F) and by November, temperatures drop further, averaging 23°C (74°F), indicating a return to the cooler winter season.
Kolkata experiences a minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F) in January, rising to a sweltering maximum of 40°C (103°F) in May, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Kolkata. In Siliguri, the temperatures range from a chilly 6°C (42°F) in February to a warm 37°C (99°F) in May, according to the monthly temperatures in Siliguri. Meanwhile, Darjiling sees even cooler conditions with a minimum of 1°C (33°F) in February, peaking at a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in August, as noted in the monthly temperatures in Darjiling.
Precipitation in West Bengal follows a distinct seasonal pattern, with markedly low levels in the winter months. January records only 7 mm (0.3 in) of rainfall, while February sees a modest increase to 19 mm (0.7 in). As spring approaches, rainfall gradually intensifies, particularly in March with 38 mm (1.5 in), paving the way for the monsoon season. By April, precipitation spikes to 93 mm (3.6 in), and May witnesses a dramatic jump to 181 mm (7.1 in), reflecting the impending arrival of the southwest monsoon.
The monsoon period, spanning June to September, is characterized by heavy rainfall and increased frequency of rainy days. June marks the transition with 302 mm (11.9 in) falling over approximately 24 days, while July reaches its peak with an impressive 406 mm (16.0 in) across 28 days. Precipitation remains substantial in August at 355 mm (14.0 in), followed by a decrease in September to 286 mm (11.2 in). The post-monsoon months of October and November experience notable rainfall reduction, recording 173 mm (6.8 in) and 29 mm (1.1 in), respectively, while December offers a brief resurgence with 39 mm (1.5 in), signifying the transition back to drier conditions.
In West Bengal, the duration of sunshine exhibits distinct seasonal variations, reflecting the region's climatic shifts. The year begins with relatively ample sunlight, as January records 240 hours, gradually increasing through February to 282 hours and March to a notable 328 hours. As spring transitions into summer, the trend continues, peaking in May with approximately 335 hours of sunshine. This marks the height of the pre-monsoon period, where clear skies and warm temperatures create optimal conditions for outdoor activities and agricultural practices.
However, the onset of the monsoon in June brings a drop in sunshine hours, which fall to 287 hours as heavy cloud cover and rain become more frequent. This decline continues through July, where only 259 hours of sun are recorded, the lowest for the year. As the monsoon wanes in August and September, sunshine hours rebound slightly to 279 hours and 267 hours, respectively. The final months of the year, October to December, maintain relatively stable sunshine levels, with October recording 288 hours and December 274 hours. Overall, the data highlights a clear seasonal rhythm, with maximum sunshine during the summer months and a notable decrease aligned with the monsoon season.
The UV Index in West Bengal reveals significant variations throughout the year, reflecting the intensity of solar radiation and its potential health impacts. The year begins in January with a UV Index of 7, categorized as high, necessitating about 25 minutes of safe sun exposure without protection. As February approaches, the UV Index rises to 8, classified as very high, with a reduced safe exposure time of 15 minutes. March experiences a further escalation to a UV Index of 10, signaling very high levels of radiation, while the transition into April sees the index peak at 11, classified as extreme. The intensity continues to escalate in May, reaching 13 and reinforcing the need for caution, as the safe burn time for unprotected skin diminishes down to just 10 minutes.
The monsoon season maintains extreme UV levels, with June through September consistently recording a UV Index of 14, demonstrating that even with an overcast sky, harmful levels of UV radiation persist. October sees a slight drop to 12, while November returns to a very high category at 8, extending the risk into the fall months. By December, the UV Index decreases further to 6, categorized as high, allowing for a more extended sun exposure time of 25 minutes. These trends underscore the importance of sun safety practices throughout the year, particularly from late spring to early autumn when UV radiation poses considerable health risks.
UV Risk Categories
In West Bengal, the duration of daylight exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm, reflecting the changing position of the sun throughout the year. January begins with approximately 10 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 11 hours in February. As spring approaches, daylight extends further during March and April, reaching 12 hours. The longest days occur in May, with daylight lasting 13 hours, a characteristic feature of the pre-monsoon phase when the sun's trajectory remains favorable for extended exposure.
The months of June through August maintain a consistent 13 hours of daylight, coinciding with the monsoon season, which provides sufficient natural light despite increased cloud cover. As the year progresses into September and October, daylight refines back to 12 hours and 11 hours, respectively, signaling the onset of autumn. The cycle concludes with shorter days in November and December, where daylight diminishes back to 10 hours. This oscillation in daylight duration highlights the dynamic interplay between seasonal changes and the geographic positioning of West Bengal, influencing both daily life and ecological patterns in the region.
The climate in Alipur Duar, India, features significant temperature variation throughout the year. January sees cool temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and maximum of 29°C (84°F), while summer months like July and August peak at 38°C (100°F) despite high humidity. Precipitation is most abundant from May to July, with July recording an average of 817 mm (32.2 in) of rain, leading to a wet monsoon season. Sunshine hours fluctuate, with the sunniest month being March, receiving 328 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Alipur Duar climate.
Asansol, India, experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot summers and a distinct monsoon season. Average temperatures range from a mild 17°C (63°F) in January to a scorching 30°C (86°F) in May, peaking at 45°C (113°F) during the summer months. Rainfall is significant, particularly from June to August, with July receiving the highest precipitation of 287 mm (11.3 in). Despite the rains, the region enjoys considerable sunshine, peaking at 342 hours in May. For more detailed information, visit Asansol climate.
Bagdogra, India experiences a tropical climate characterized by significant temperature variations throughout the year. January starts off cool with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 26°C, while the summer months of June to August see higher averages, with highs reaching up to 35°C and substantial rainfall, particularly in July. The monsoon season is particularly intense, with precipitation peaking at 961 mm in July. Sunshine is abundant during the early months, peaking at 334 hours in May before tapering during the rainy season. For more detailed information, visit Bagdogra climate.
Bakreswar, India experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot summers and a monsoon season. Temperatures range from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) in January to highs of 43°C (109°F) in May. The region sees significant rainfall, especially during the monsoon months of June and July, which receive up to 325 mm (12.8 in) of precipitation. Despite the rain, sunshine is abundant with an average of 244 to 333 hours per month from January to May. For more detailed information, visit Bakreswar climate.
The climate in Bankura, India, is characterized by a significant temperature range throughout the year, with January seeing minimums of 7°C (44°F) and maximums of 30°C (87°F). The hottest months are April and May, where temperatures can peak at 43°C (109°F) and 42°C (107°F), respectively. Monsoon impacts are pronounced, with the highest precipitation occurring in July (317 mm) and a substantial total from June to September, making this period quite humid. Bankura enjoys considerable sunshine, especially in the summer months, with May recording up to 344 hours. For more detailed information, visit Bankura climate.
Barddhaman, India experiences a tropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. The temperatures range from a cool 8°C (46°F) in January to a sizzling 42°C (107°F) in March, with most months averaging around 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is heaviest from June to August, peaking at 311 mm (12.2 in) in July, while the dry months of January and February see minimal precipitation. Sunshine hours are plenty, peaking at 341 hours in May. For more detailed information, visit Barddhaman climate.
Bishnupur, India experiences a diverse climate marked by hot summers and a distinct monsoon season. Temperatures vary significantly throughout the year, peaking in April and May with maximums reaching up to 43°C (109°F), while winter months see cooler averages around 18°C (65°F) in January. Precipitation is highest during the monsoon months of June to September, with July recording about 329 mm (13.0 in) of rainfall. Despite the rains, the region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in May, which boasts 344 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Bishnupur climate.
Bolpur, India, experiences a tropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. January begins cool, with average temperatures around 18°C (64°F), while by March and April, temperatures rise to as high as 42°C (108°F). The monsoon season from June to September brings significant rainfall, peaking in July with 322 mm (12.7 in). Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in March and May, which see over 330 hours of sunlight. For more detailed climate information, visit Bolpur climate.
Chandannagar, India experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot summers and a monsoon season. Temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) in January to a high of 40°C (104°F) in April, with average temperatures hovering around 30°C (86°F) from April to June. The monsoon season, especially in July and August, brings significant rainfall, peaking at 342 mm (13.5 in) in July. Despite the heavy rains, the city enjoys ample sunshine, with over 300 hours recorded from March to May. For more detailed information, visit Chandannagar climate.
Darjiling, India, experiences a diverse climate with temperatures ranging from a chilly 1°C (33°F) in February to a warm 31°C (88°F) in July and August. The region receives significant rainfall, especially from June to August, peaking at 991 mm (39.0 in) in July. Despite heavy precipitation during the monsoon months, sunshine is abundant in the spring, with over 330 hours in May. For more detailed information, visit Darjiling climate.
Diamond Harbour, India experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly during the monsoon months. January begins with cooler temperatures, averaging 19°C (67°F), and minimal rainfall, while by June, temperatures rise to around 30°C (87°F) with heavy precipitation peaking at 262 mm (10.3 in). The monsoon season continues through August, bringing the highest rainfall of 356 mm (14.0 in) before tapering off in September. Sunshine is abundant in the early months, peaking at 345 hours in May, but decreases during the monsoon. For more detailed information, visit Diamond Harbour climate.
Digha, India experiences a tropical climate with significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year. January sees cooler temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a maximum of 31°C (87°F), while by June, temperatures can peak at 41°C (105°F). The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, with July receiving the highest at 301 mm. Sunshine is abundant, especially in the pre-monsoon months, with May enjoying the most hours at 352. For more detailed information, visit Digha climate.
Durgapur, India experiences a humid subtropical climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. January to March features mild temperatures, with averages rising from 17°C (64°F) to 26°C (80°F), while the summer months of April and May can see maximums reaching up to 43°C (110°F). The monsoon season kicks in from June to September, bringing heavy rainfall, peaking in July with 307 mm (12.1 in). Afterward, temperatures cool slightly in October and November, providing a more pleasant climate with less precipitation. For more details, check out Durgapur climate.
Gopalpur, India experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly during the monsoon months from June to September. Average temperatures range from a mild 19°C (66°F) in January to a peak of 30°C (86°F) in May, with maximums reaching 39°C (102°F) in April and June. Rainfall varies dramatically, with June receiving the highest precipitation at 307 mm (12.1 in) and January being the driest at just 5 mm (0.2 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly from March to May, with March averaging 328 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Gopalpur climate.
Haldia, India experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. January sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F), while the summer months of May to August are hot and humid, with average highs reaching up to 30°C (86°F) and maximums soaring beyond 37°C (99°F). Rainfall peaks between June and September, with July being the wettest month at 327 mm (12.9 in). Despite heavy precipitation, sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in March and April, providing an overall vibrant climate. For more detailed information, visit Haldia climate.
Haora, India experiences a tropical wet and dry climate characterized by high temperatures and significant seasonal rainfall. The hottest months are April and May, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F). The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rain, peaking in July and August with over 350 mm (13.9 in) of precipitation. Despite the rainfall, Haora enjoys a good amount of sunshine throughout the year, especially in the summer months. For more details, visit Haora climate.
Jaigaon, India, experiences a tropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winter months from December to February are cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 19°C (66°F) and minimal rainfall. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy precipitation, peaking in July with over 1000 mm (41.1 in). Temperatures during this time can rise from 22°C (71°F) to 33°C (91°F). For more detailed information, visit Jaigaon climate.
Jalpaiguri, India, experiences a tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a cool 6°C (44°F) in January to a peak of 38°C (100°F) in April and May, with a humid monsoon period from June to September, where rainfall exceeds 500 mm monthly. The region enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in the early months, with January averaging 234 hours of sunlight. October marks a transition towards cooler and drier weather, making it a favorable time for visitors. For a detailed overview, refer to the Jalpaiguri climate.
Jhargram, India experiences a warm climate with significant seasonal variations. The temperature ranges from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) in January to a maximum of 43°C (110°F) in March and April. The monsoon season from June to September sees the highest precipitation, peaking at 315 mm (12.4 in) in July, while December is the driest month. Despite heavy rains, sunshine is abundant, especially in the summer months, with May receiving the most hours at 347. For more details, visit Jhargram climate.
Kakdwip, India, experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and a pronounced monsoon season. January to March sees relatively cooler nights and warm days, with temperatures reaching up to 38°C (100°F) in March. The rainy season begins in June, peaking in July and August with over 350 mm (14.0 in) of precipitation. Despite high rainfall, sunshine is plentiful, especially from February to May, with up to 350 hours of sunlight in May. For more details, visit Kakdwip climate.
Kalimpong, India experiences a temperate climate with significant seasonal variations in temperature and rainfall. Winters (December to February) are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 13°C (57°F) in January to 15°C (59°F) in December, while summers (May to August) see higher temperatures, peaking at 34°C (93°F) in August. The region receives substantial rainfall, particularly during the monsoon months of June and July, when precipitation can exceed 1000 mm (39.4 in). Sunshine hours are plentiful from January to May but decrease during the monsoon, with the most rainfall recorded in July. For more detailed information, visit Kalimpong climate.
Kalna, India experiences a warm and humid tropical climate characterized by significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year. Winter months (December to February) are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 21°C (64°F to 70°F) and low precipitation. As summer approaches (March to May), temperatures peak, with averages reaching up to 30°C (86°F) and substantial rainfall, particularly in May with 208 mm (8.2 in). The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, peaking in July with 306 mm (12.1 in), while temperatures remain moderately high. For more detailed information, visit Kalna climate.
Karsiyang, India experiences a temperate climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) in February to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) during the peak summer months of July and August. Rainfall is significant, particularly from June to August, where monthly precipitation can reach up to 991 mm (39.0 in) in July. Despite the heavy rains, Karsiyang enjoys considerable sunshine, peaking at 334 hours in May. For more details, visit Karsiyang climate.
Kharagpur, India experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot summers and a distinct monsoon season. January starts cool with temperatures ranging from 9°C to 32°C, while March and April witness increasing heat, reaching up to 42°C. The monsoon months of June to September bring significant rainfall, peaking in July with 325 mm. Despite heavy rains, sunshine is abundant, especially in spring and early summer, with May averaging 348 hours. For more detailed information, visit Kharagpur climate.
The climate in Koch Bihar, India, features a significant variation in temperature and precipitation throughout the year. Winters are mild, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C to a maximum of 29°C, while the summer months of May to August see maximum temperatures around 36-38°C. Rainfall peaks during the monsoon season from June to September, with July receiving the most precipitation at 704 mm. Sunshine hours are abundant in the winter and spring, averaging over 300 hours, but decrease significantly in the monsoon months. For more detailed information, visit Koch Bihar climate.
Kolkata, India, experiences a tropical wet and dry climate with significant seasonal variations in temperature and rainfall. Winter months, from January to February, feature mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 35°C (50°F to 96°F) and low precipitation. The pre-monsoon summer, especially in April and May, sees rising temperatures peaking at 40°C (103°F) accompanied by increasing rainfall, leading into the monsoon season from June to September, characterized by heavy rains, peaking at 353 mm (13.9 in) in July and August. The city enjoys ample sunshine, especially in spring and early summer, with over 300 hours in March and April. For more detailed climate information, visit Kolkata climate.
The climate in Krishnanagar, India, exhibits a distinct range of temperatures throughout the year, with January showcasing cooler conditions (min 7°C / 46°F) and rising to hot summers in April (max 40°C / 105°F). The monsoon season from June to August brings considerable rainfall, peaking in July with approximately 316 mm (12.5 in). Despite the rain, sunshine is abundant, particularly in March (328 hours) and May (326 hours), contributing to warm and humid weather. For further details on temperatures and weather patterns, visit Krishnanagar climate.
Medinipur, India, experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot, dry winters and humid summers. January to March sees average temperatures rise from 19°C to 28°C, with maximums peaking at 43°C in April. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall, particularly in July with 334 mm. Despite the rains, sunny days are abundant, especially in May with 348 sunshine hours. For more detailed data, visit Medinipur climate.
Mirik, India experiences a varied climate throughout the year, characterized by mild winters and monsoon rains. January and February are relatively cooler with temperatures ranging from 1°C to 23°C, while the summer months of May and June see warmer averages up to 23°C and substantial rainfall peaking in July at 991 mm. The area receives significant precipitation from March to September, contributing to its lush greenery, while sunshine hours are highest in April and May. For more detailed information, visit Mirik climate.
Murshidabad, India, experiences a tropical wet-and-dry climate characterized by hot summers and a distinct monsoon season. Temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) in January to a maximum of 41°C (107°F) in April, with an overall average around 30°C (86°F) during peak summer months. Rainfall increases significantly from April onwards, with July receiving the highest precipitation at 318 mm (12.5 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking at 331 hours in March, gradually decreasing during the monsoons. For more details, visit Murshidabad climate.
Navadwip, India experiences a tropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. Temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) in January to a maximum of 41°C (106°F) in April, with frequent highs above 30°C (86°F) during the summer months. Precipitation is highest from June to August, receiving over 300 mm (11.8 in) monthly, while January and November are the driest months. The area enjoys substantial sunshine throughout the year, peaking at 328 hours in March. For a more detailed overview, visit Navadwip climate.
Puruliya, India experiences a tropical climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. January sees mild temperatures ranging from 6°C to 30°C, while April and May can reach highs of 43°C. The monsoon season, peaking in July with 345 mm of rainfall, contributes to the region's overall precipitation which ranges from 10 mm in January to 226 mm in June. Sunshine hours are abundant, with May offering the most at 347 hours. For more details, visit Puruliya climate.
Ramnagar, India experiences a hot and humid climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) in January to a peak of 40°C (104°F) in April. The monsoon season, particularly from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, with July averaging 342 mm (13.5 in) of precipitation. Despite the rain, sunshine is abundant, especially in March and May, which see over 300 hours of sun. As the year progresses, temperatures gradually decrease, with a cooler average of 18°C (65°F) in January. For more detailed information, visit Ramnagar climate.
Siliguri, India, experiences a diverse climate characterized by warm summers and heavy monsoons. January sees temperatures ranging from 6°C to 28°C, while summer months (May to July) can peak at 37°C. Rainfall is significant, particularly from June to July, with July recording an average of 951 mm, marking the peak of the monsoon season. Despite the rainfall, Siliguri enjoys ample sunshine, especially in March and April with over 325 hours per month. For more detailed information on conditions, visit Siliguri climate.
The climate in Tarakeswar, India, features a broad temperature range, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C to a maximum of 31°C, peaking in March at up to 42°C. The region experiences significant rainfall, especially during the monsoon months of June to August, receiving over 300 mm of rain per month. Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, with May having the most at 337 hours. Overall, Tarakeswar has a tropical climate that is characterized by hot summers, a rainy season, and mild winters. For more details, visit Tarakeswar climate.
In conclusion, the climatic and environmental factors in West Bengal, India, create a complex yet predictable pattern of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours throughout the year. The region experiences a diverse climate influenced by distinct seasonal changes, evidenced by the notable temperature fluctuations and significant rainfall during the monsoon period. Meanwhile, the variations in sunshine duration and UV radiation underscore the necessity for sun safety, particularly during the summer months when exposure risks peak. This intricate interplay of climatic elements plays a critical role in shaping agricultural practices, lifestyle, and the overall ecological balance in West Bengal, emphasizing the importance of understanding these patterns for sustainable development and resilience against climate variability.