Kanpur experiences a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by extreme seasonal variations that define the city’s rhythm. Located in the heart of the Indo-Gangetic plain, its weather is typical of a continental interior—moving from bone-dry heat to drenching rains and crisp, foggy winters.
Seasonal Rhythm
Summer (March to June): The Dry Scorch
Summer in Kanpur is intense. Starting in March, temperatures climb rapidly, peaking in May and June with daytime highs often exceeding 40°C (104°F) and occasionally reaching 45°C (113°F).
- The "Loo" Wind: A defining phenomenon of Kanpur’s summer is the Loo—strong, dusty, and searingly hot winds that blow from the west during the afternoon.
- Feel: The air feels heavy and abrasive. Humidity is very low initially, making the heat feel like a "dry bake," though it becomes increasingly muggy by late June as the monsoon nears.
Monsoon (July to September): The Great Deluge
The arrival of the southwest monsoon in late June or early July brings dramatic relief from the heat but introduces oppressive humidity.
- Rainfall: July and August are the wettest months, accounting for the vast majority of the city's annual rainfall (roughly 800-900mm).
- Feel: While temperatures drop to the low 30s°C, the high moisture content makes it feel much hotter due to a lack of evaporative cooling. Thunderstorms are frequent and can be violent, often accompanied by brief, heavy downpours.
Post-Monsoon/Autumn (October to November): The Transition
This is widely considered the most pleasant time in the city. The rain ceases, the skies clear, and the landscape remains lush from the previous months.
- Trend: Days are warm (around 30°C), while nights begin to turn cool and crisp.
Winter (December to February): The Cold Mist
Winters are surprisingly cold for northern India. January is the coldest month, with daytime highs around 20°C (68°F) and nights dropping to 7°C (45°F) or lower.
- Fog and Smog: Winter mornings are frequently characterized by thick fog and a "pollution dome." Cold air traps particulates near the ground, significantly reducing visibility until the sun burns the haze off by midday.
- Climate Context: The city is susceptible to "Cold Waves" driven by western disturbances, which can bring occasional light winter rain.
Daily Evolution
- In Summer: The most extreme heat occurs between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Locals typically retreat indoors during these hours to avoid the Loo. Relief only comes after sunset, though nights remain warm.
- In Winter: Diurnal temperature swings are sharp. A sunny afternoon can feel quite mild, but as soon as the sun dips, the temperature plummets, requiring immediate adjustment.
Microclimates and Variations
- Ganges River Proximity: Areas near the banks of the Ganges (Ganga) may experience slightly higher humidity and morning mist compared to the industrial inner city.
- Urban Heat Island: The densely packed industrial sectors and paved areas of central Kanpur often stay 2-3°C warmer at night than the outskirts or the leafy Cantonment area due to the urban heat island effect.
Local Adaptations
Locals navigate the weather with seasonal traditions. In summer, shops may close during the peak afternoon heat. During the monsoon, the sudden "Black Storms" (Kali Andhi)—violent dust storms preceding rain—signal an immediate end to outdoor activity. In winter, evening "bonfires" on street corners are a common social sight as residents gather to ward off the damp chill.