PANAJI
November has brought little of the winter relief Goa would normally expect at this time of the year, with the State recording a maximum temperature of 35.4°C on Saturday, 2.1°C above normal. Humidity stood at a stifling 92 per cent, making the day particularly uncomfortable.
The heat is likely to persist, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Goa forecasting both maximum and minimum temperatures to remain above normal over the next five days. Partly cloudy skies, morning haze and temperatures of around 34°C and 24°C are expected over the next 48 hours.
The IMD has warned of moderate health concerns for vulnerable groups, including infants, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses. Prolonged exposure to heat can increase the risk of dehydration, heat cramps and heat rash, particularly during peak afternoon hours.
People have been advised to drink water at regular intervals, even when they are not thirsty. ORS and traditional rehydrating drinks such as lassi, torani, lemon water, sugarcane juice and buttermilk have also been suggested to replenish fluids.
The longer-range outlook offers little relief, with weather app AccuWeather forecasting daytime temperatures to rise to 36-38°C between November 14 and 19. The feels-like temperature could touch 40°C, accompanied by hazy sunshine and partly sunny skies.
A possible change in weather is expected around November 20 and 21, when overcast skies could bring the maximum temperature down to around 35°C. The UV index is also likely to ease.
