August continues the monsoon trend with high humidity and consistent rainfall. The month is also marked by local festivals adding vibrant colors to the cityscape despite the dull weather.
Kolkata's colonial architecture coupled with the grey monsoon skies makes for stunning visuals. Though the rainfall begins to ease off by the end of the month. Kolkata experiences 349mm (13.74") of rainfall in August, slightly less than
July.
Temperature
Kolkata registers an average high-temperature of a still hot 32.1°C (89.8°F) at the commencement of August, closely related to the preceding month. Kolkata observes an average low-temperature of 26.1°C (79°F) during August nights.
Heat index
The heat index for August is evaluated at a life-threatening hot 46°C (114.8°F).
Remain alert: Heat exhaustion and heat cramps are predicted. Extended effort can lead to heatstroke.
Be advised, the heat index considers values for conditions in shade and with a light breeze. A rise of up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees in the heat index could result from direct sunlight.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', comes about by integrating the temperature readings with the humidity levels. The impact of weather on an individual can be subjective, affected by the person's activity and heat perception, which can vary due to elements including wind, clothing, and metabolic differences. Considering the impact of direct sunlight, it's possible for the heat index to surge by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values hold particular importance for children. Younglings frequently fail to recognize the requirement to rest and rehydrate. Thirst emerges late in dehydration - it is imperative to keep hydration levels high, particularly during extended physical exertions.
The evaporation of sweat is a natural cooling mechanism of the human body, facilitated by perspiration. In the presence of elevated relative humidity, the evaporation rate decreases. This reduction leads to increased body heat retention compared to conditions of dry air. As body temperatures escalate without effective heat release, one might face dehydration threats.
Humidity
July and August, with an average relative humidity of 83%, are the most humid months.
Rainfall
In August, in Kolkata, the rain falls for 20.2 days. Throughout August, 349mm (13.74") of precipitation is accumulated. In Kolkata,
India, during the entire year, the rain falls for 101.5 days and collects up to 1800mm (70.87") of precipitation.
Daylight
In Kolkata, the average length of the day in August is 12h and 54min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 5:08 am and sunset at 6:17 pm. On the last day of August, sunrise is at 5:18 am and sunset at 5:54 pm IST.
Sunshine
In August, the average sunshine is 3.4h.
UV index
The months with the highest UV index are
April through August, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an excessive health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: The average daily UV index of 12 in August transforms into the following instructions:
Enforce every key safety measure. Those with light skin might get burns in a matter of minutes. Remember that the sun's UV radiation is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Make an effort to avoid direct sun exposure during these hours. Select sunglasses that boast both UVA and UVB protection to limit the adverse effects of the sun on the eyes. Even if it's cloudy, generously apply and frequently reapply a sunscreen with no less than a 30 sun protection factor after each swim or outdoor exercise.