PANAJI
Rain accompanied by lightning and thunder soon followed an yellow alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for Goa on Sunday casting a damp shadow on the Diwali eve Narkasur Dahan celebrations.
The IMD alert had warned of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across the State.
From early evening, a steady drizzle blanketed both North and South Goa, intensifying into sporadic downpours accompanied by thunder and vivid lightning streaks.
The rainfall remained moderate but it did disrupt by varying degrees several outdoor events.
Wind speeds touched 40–50 km/h in coastal pockets, prompting caution among residents and tourists.
The IMD has attributed the weather to a cyclonic circulation over the southeast Arabian Sea and Lakshadweep region, which it said is expected to evolve into a low-pressure system.
This development has triggered widespread rainfall across the Konkan coast, with Goa likely to see continued showers through the week.
The timing of the alert proved especially challenging for organizers of Narkasur Dahan and the celebrations were scaled down a tad.
Only two weather stations — Ponda and Sanguem — recorded measurable rainfall on Sunday with 3 mm and 1 mm respectively.
However, IMD anticipates broader precipitation in the coming days as the system intensifies.
Local authorities have urged citizens to stay updated via official weather bulletins and take precautions during lightning episodes. Fishermen have also been advised against venturing into the sea due to rough conditions.
With Diwali just hours away, the unpredictable weather has prompted many to rethink travel and outdoor plans, though the festive spirit remains undeterred across Goa.
