Heat index surpasses several IMD stations
PANAJI
Goa seems to be emerging as one of the most heat-affected places in the country this summer. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded a maximum temperature of 34.6°C on Wednesday and ‘feels like’ temperature of 47.8°C – probably the highest among several IMD stations experiencing high heat levels.
Official data indicate that despite actual temperatures being higher elsewhere, Goa’s humidity and atmospheric conditions have pushed the discomfort index much above other states/UT.
Delhi, for instance, recorded a maximum of 37°C – over 2°C higher than Goa but its ‘feels like’ temperature was around 39-40°C. Bhopal registered 38°C, and ‘feels like’ temperature just 34°C, significantly lower than Goa’s.
Goa’s close neighbouring district Belagavi experienced around 33°C with a ‘feels like’ reading of 38.1°C, while Kerala reported 31.2°C and a matching 38.1°C in perceived heat. Even Gujarat, which has been under heat wave-like conditions, fared better than Goa. Most stations there recorded temperatures between 31°C and 37°C, but the heat index remained under 40°C except at Bhuj, which touched 40°C.
Maharashtra’s several IMD stations also recorded slightly higher maximum temperature but the heat index, yet again, remained below 42°C.
Amid unbearable heat conditions, Goa’s temperature was 1.2°C above the normal temperature on Wednesday. According to the IMD, the State has seen a gradual rise in temperature since late February, with the summer season consistently trending above normal, except for a few isolated days.
No immediate respite is expected, with forecasts indicating that maximum temperatures in Goa will hover between 35°C and 36°C for the next seven days.
The IMD attributed the persistent heat to a north-south trough linked to an upper-air cyclonic circulation stretching from southwest Rajasthan to north Kerala. This system, extending up to 1.5 km above mean sea level, is contributing to elevated heat and humidity levels along India’s western coast, including Goa.
