The arrival of
October signals the post-monsoon period in
Kolkata, accompanied by a significant drop in rainfall levels. The biggest festival, 'Durga Puja,' engulfs the city in a carnival-like atmosphere, despite the slight discomfort caused by high humidity. The city is buzzing with activity during this month as the temperatures become more comfortable by the day. October is also when the rainfall finally goes down significantly to 143mm (5.63").
Temperature
The start of October sees the average high-temperature at a still hot 32.3°C (90.1°F), showing little difference from
September's 32.4°C (90.3°F). Throughout October nights, Kolkata experiences a consistent temperature average of 23.9°C (75°F).
Heat index
The heat index value during October is evaluated at an extremely hot 42°C (107.6°F). Exercise increased caution, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are potential hazards. Continuous activity could lead to heatstroke.
Heat index details are generally centered around shaded locations and a mild breeze. Exposure to the sun directly might heighten the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'apparent temperature', is a calculated temperature value of how hot it feels when the moisture in the air is factored in. A person's impression of weather can be shaped by many aspects, among them metabolic variations, pregnancy, and levels of physical activity. Realize that direct exposure to sunlight can augment the felt heat, leading to a potential increase in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly critical to babies and toddlers. Youngsters often neglect the necessity for rest and hydration. Thirst is a sign of advancing dehydration - thus the importance of maintaining hydration, specifically during long-lasting physical activities.
To prevent overheating and help regulate its internal temperature, the human body sweat and rely on the evaporation to cool down. With a lot of moisture in the air, the evaporation process is not as effective, and the body does not cool down as efficiently, creating a perception of overheating. Accumulating more heat than the body can dissipate leads to an uptick in body temperature, with potential heat stress consequences.
Humidity
In October, the average relative humidity is 73%.
Rainfall
In Kolkata, in October, during 8.1 rainfall days, 143mm (5.63") of precipitation is typically accumulated. Throughout the year, in Kolkata, there are 101.5 rainfall days, and 1800mm (70.87") of precipitation is accumulated.
Daylight
In Kolkata,
India, the average length of the day in October is 11h and 38min.
On the first day of October, sunrise is at 5:28 am and sunset at 5:24 pm. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 5:40 am and sunset at 4:59 pm IST.
Sunshine
In October, the average sunshine is 5.9h.
UV index
In October, the average daily maximum UV index is 9. A UV Index reading of 8 to 10 represents a very high health vulnerability from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: In October, a daily maximum UV index of 9 leads to the following instructions:
Always take safety measures. The skin and eyes are at risk if left exposed. The Sun's UV radiation is at its strongest between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Minimize direct exposure to the sun during this period. Shield yourself from the harmful effects of UV radiation with sun-protective attire, a hat, and quality sunglasses. A sunscreen boasting a minimum SPF of 30 should be generously applied and reapplied even on cloudy days, post swim or outdoor exercise.