PANAJI
Incessant rainfall across Goa has reduced the seasonal deficit from 12 per cent recorded as of last week to 6 per cent on Monday, even as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a fresh alert forecasting heavy to extremely heavy rainfall over the State and the Konkan region till August 23.
Goa also witnessed the season’s second highest daily rainfall with 106.2 mm recorded till Monday afternoon, the IMD said, adding the monsoon has been vigorous .
“Heavy to very heavy rainfall over Goa, Maharashtra (including Mumbai) and Gujarat is likely during the next seven days, with extremely heavy falls over Konkan (including Mumbai) and Goa, Ghat areas of Madhya Maharashtra till August 19. Gujarat region and Saurashtra may see similar activity till August 20, with peak intensity on August 19-20,” the IMD advisory stated.
The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) said it was closely tracking updates from the IMD while assuring all concerned departments have been on alert. Fisherfolk have been asked not to venture into the sea along the Konkan-Goa coast for the next three days.
Both North and South Goa were also placed under light to moderate flash flood risk on Monday. The IMD warned that intense spells of rain could lead to disruptions including poor visibility, traffic congestion, uprooting of trees, damage to kutcha houses and huts, waterlogging in low-lying areas, and landslides.
The advisory also warned of potential crop damage. “Heavy rainfall may damage standing crops and vegetables in the maturity stage. Kharif crops like rice, maize and plantations could be severely impacted. Rain may also lead to crop lodging and deterioration in grain quality,” the alert added.
Other possible impacts listed include damage to vulnerable structures, disruption of community services such as electricity and water supply, flooding in Panaji city requiring long-duration pumping, overflow of drains, and risk to slum areas situated along railway tracks, rivers and drains.
The IMD Goa has urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel in flood-prone areas while fishermen and coastal residents have been strongly advised to take all precautions till weather system weakens.
