PANAJI
The Southwest Monsoon made its onset over Goa, albeit in some parts, on Thursday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Goa issuing a yellow alert warning of moderate rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds till June 9.
The monsoon's arrival comes after a brief delay. While the normal date for monsoon onset over Goa was June 1, the system had been expected to reach the state 2-3 days after its arrival in Kerala. However, after the monsoon finally reached Kerala on June 4 -- nearly nine days behind schedule -- it advanced rapidly and entered Goa the very next day.
The IMD on Thursday confirmed that the Southwest Monsoon had further advanced into parts of Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and the southwest Bay of Bengal.
The rains brought immediate relief from the summer heat, with maximum temperatures settling between 31°C and 33°C across the state.
The IMD has forecast maximum and minimum temperatures of around 33°C and 25°C, respectively, over the next 48 hours.
Along with the rainfall forecast, the weather department has cautioned residents and authorities about the possibility of cloud-to-ground lightning, rough sea conditions and waterlogging in low-lying areas.
The IMD warned that intense spells of rain could lead to temporary inundation of roads, traffic congestion, localized disruption of electricity and water supply services, and reduced visibility. There is also a possibility of weak trees and vulnerable structures being damaged by strong winds.
Agricultural fields may witness water inundation, while rough seas are likely to pose risks along the coast. Authorities have also been advised to restrict tourists from entering the sea during the warning period and to temporarily suspend ferry operations if weather conditions deteriorate.
The department urged people to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees, unplug electrical appliances during lightning activity and stay away from water bodies and other objects that conduct electricity.
