PANAJI
Goa continued to reel under severe heat on Friday with maximum temperatures at around 35°C and the ‘feel-like’ temperature crossing 45°C in several parts of the State.
However, there was temporary respite as pre-monsoon showers lashed some parts, particularly Valpoi.
The sudden spell of rain, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds, also triggered monsoon-like chaos in affected areas. Valpoi reported the heaviest damage with personnel from fire and emergency services attending to at least 15 cases of trees being uprooted and falling on roads, religious structures, houses, electric lines, vehicles, compound walls and even car sheds. These incidents were reported in a span of just two-and-a-half hours, between 3 pm and 5:30 pm.
Other parts of Goa including Panaji remained largely cloudy with light rain in a few areas. The overall temperature saw a marginal dip after the showers, providing some relief to residents.
According to the Fire and Emergency Services Department, a total of 22 emergency calls were received across the State. Apart from this, six fire-related incidents were reported from Curchorem, Pernem, and Panaji.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD), Goa, has meanwhile extended the yellow alert for heat till April 9. The forecast has warned of hot and humid conditions at isolated pockets, with dry weather likely to prevail over both districts.
The IMD has also predicted mainly sunny skies for the coming days.
