Goa scorches under intense heat, records season’s highest 36.5°C

PANAJI

Goa reeled under the hottest day of the ongoing summer season on Wednesday and Thursday as the State recorded a scorching maximum temperature of 36.5°C, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to warn of hot and humid conditions across isolated pockets of the State.

The temperature, which stood 2.4 degrees above normal, marked the season’s highest maximum temperature so far, even as residents battled intense afternoon heat and humidity. The minimum temperature too remained above normal at 26.5°C.

IMD official Nahush Kulkarni told The Goan that Goa did witness similar heat levels in the past.

“This is the highest maximum temperature recorded in Goa during the current summer season. However, Goa has crossed the 36°C mark on at least eight occasions in previous years as well,” Kulkarni said.

While dry weather prevailed across the State over the last 24 hours, the IMD Goa has forecast isolated thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph during late afternoon and evening hours over both North and South Goa districts.

The weather office said hot and humid conditions are likely to continue during late morning and afternoon hours on Friday as well, with light to moderate rainfall or thundershowers expected later in the day.

While no formal weather warning has been issued till May 13, the IMD said mainly sunny and dry weather conditions are expected to persist across Goa over the coming days.

The soaring temperatures have triggered moderate health concerns for vulnerable sections, including infants, senior citizens and people suffering from chronic illnesses. In its routine advisory, the IMD warned of dehydration, heat cramps and heat rash during peak afternoon hours between 11 am and 3 pm.

It has advised people to avoid prolonged sun exposure, wear light cotton clothing, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat hours.

“Drink water regularly, even if not thirsty. Use ORS, buttermilk, lemon water or other traditional cooling drinks to prevent dehydration,” the advisory stated.