March weather forecast
Kolkata, India

The start of the summer season in Kolkata can be witnessed in the month of March, resulting in conspicuously warm temperatures. Despite the rising temperature, humidity levels stay relatively similar to previous months. As this month is devoid of major festivals, city life continues at a regular pace. A gradual increase in night temperatures is also observed. In the peak afternoon, temperatures spike to a high of 33.5°C (92.3°F).

Temperature

March brings a slight rise in Kolkata's average high-temperature, moving from a moderately hot 29.1°C (84.4°F) in February to a hot 33.5°C (92.3°F). Kolkata, during the nights of March, experiences an average temperature drop to an agreeable 21.7°C (71.1°F).

Heat index

The heat index for March is evaluated at an extremely hot 40°C (104°F). Adopt heightened preventive measures, heat exhaustion and heat cramps are probable. Persistent activity could lead to heatstroke.
The metrics for the heat index are tailored for both shady environments and light winds. If directly exposed to the sun, the heat index could rise by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'apparent temperature', is a metric representing the sensation of warmth when air temperature and moisture come together. This effect is personal, influenced by the individual's physical activity and heat sensitivity, shaped by factors including wind, attire, and metabolic variations. Consider the fact that direct sun exposure can influence how hot one feels, potentially raising the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly relevant to babies and toddlers. Young kids are often more at risk than adults as they tend to perspire less. Besides, their skin surface is larger relative to their small bodies, and their increased heat output from their active lifestyle compounds their risk.
The body's natural response to excessive warmth is perspiration, as it allows for cooling through sweat evaporation. An increase in relative humidity hinders the body's normal cooling function by reducing evaporation, thereby decreasing the rate of body cooling and enhancing the sense of warmth. If the body retains more heat than it can expel, the increasing temperature can lead to heat-related conditions.

Humidity

The months with the lowest humidity are February and March, with an average relative humidity of 58%.

Rainfall

In Kolkata, during March, the rain falls for 3 days and regularly aggregates up to 35mm (1.38") of precipitation. 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 March, the average length of the day is 12h and 2min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 5:57 am and sunset at 5:40 pm. On the last day of March, sunrise is at 5:29 am and sunset at 5:51 pm IST.

Sunshine

In March, the average sunshine is 7.3h.

UV index

The average daily maximum UV index in March is 11. A UV Index estimate of 11, and higher, represents an extreme threat to health from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for the ordinary person.
Note: A daily high UV index of 11 in March leads to these guidelines:
Practice every precaution of necessity, unprotected skin and eyes might burn in minutes. Stay out of direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is most intense, and remember that not all shade structures provide complete protection. Opt for tightly woven and loose clothing to enhance protection from the Sun. After a swim or an outdoor workout, generously apply and regularly reapply a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even if the day is cloudy.