April weather forecast
Kolkata, India

April sees Kolkata fully gripped by the summer season with marked high temperatures coupled with increasing humidity. Significantly, this time is known for the abrupt storms known locally as "kalbaisakhi", a prominent feature in Kolkata's weather pattern. Prospective tourists should be prepared for the high heat, and residents also prefer staying indoors during peak hours. The city records its highest UV index for the year in April, marking a UV index of 12.

Temperature

Kolkata ushers in April with an average high-temperature of a torrid 35.3°C (95.5°F), showing a close resemblance to the previous month. Kolkata experiences a steady low-temperature of 25.1°C (77.2°F) throughout April.

Heat index

In April, the heat index is evaluated at a life-threatening hot 49°C (120.2°F). Mindful: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are to be expected. Extended physical effort might result in heatstroke.
Observations indicate that the heat index values are for shady locations with light wind. Exposure to unobstructed sunshine could lead to an increase in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'feels like', stands as a testimony to how temperature and humidity combine to impact our sense of warmth. This effect tends to be personal, with the weather perception differing among individuals due to variations in body mass, height, and exertion. Direct exposure to the sun's rays can enhance the felt temperature, increasing the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are extremely significant for babies and toddlers. Children often do not understand the need to rest and hydrate. Thirst is a late manifestation of dehydration - therefore, it is essential to stay hydrated, particularly during prolonged physical activities.
The human body cools itself through perspiration, as excessive warmth is removed from the body through sweat evaporation. A surge in relative humidity can disrupt the body's normal cooling function by slowing evaporation, hence reducing the rate at which the body cools and intensifying the perception of heat. Rising body temperatures resulting from an imbalance in heat absorption can lead to potential thermal issues.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in April is 66%.

Rainfall

In April, in Kolkata, the rain falls for 4.8 days. Throughout April, 60mm (2.36") of precipitation is accumulated. In Kolkata, during the entire year, the rain falls for 101.5 days and collects up to 1800mm (70.87") of precipitation.

Daylight

In April, the average length of the day in Kolkata is 12h and 41min.
On the first day of April, sunrise is at 5:28 am and sunset at 5:51 pm. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 5:04 am and sunset at 6:03 pm IST.

Sunshine

April has the most sunshine of the year in Kolkata, with an average of 7.8h of sunshine.

UV index

April through August, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index estimate of 11, and higher, represents an extreme threat to health from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for the ordinary person.
Note: An average maximum UV index of 12 in April leads to these recommendations:
Put into effect every essential safeguard, as unprotected skin and eyes might burn instantly. Avoid direct sunlight between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak. Keep in mind that shade structures may not provide complete protection. For a sun-safe wardrobe, go for clothes that are tightly woven and generously sized. Prompt application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30+, is necessary after a swim or an outdoor workout and it should be re-applied every two hours.