Panaji: The state recorded its hottest day of the month on May 6, with the maximum temperature touching 36.5°C, which was 2.6°C above the normal maximum of 33.9°C for this period.
According to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data, the reading was the sixth-highest maximum temperature recorded in May since 2011.
The daytime temperatures over the past week stood at 34.8°C on May 1, 34.7°C on May 2, 35.2°C on May 3, 35.1°C on May 4, and 35.4°C on May 5. On Thursday, the maximum temperature remained above normal at 35.4°C, which was 1.5°C higher than the climatological average.
Night temperatures have also remained above normal across the state. IMD data showed the minimum temperature was 27.5°C on May 1 and 27.4°C on May 6, both higher than the normal minimum temperature of 26.2°C. The highest minimum temperature recorded in the state during May was 29.3°C on May 20, 2016, and May 7, 2020. Meteorologists attributed the conditions to strong solar heating and humid weather ahead of the monsoon onset. An IMD official said clear daytime skies and weak localised cloud formation had resulted in increased heating over the region, while humidity had added to discomfort levels.
Historical IMD data showed that the highest temperature recorded in Goa during May remains 38.6°C on May 6, 2004.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Goa warning of continued hot and humid conditions over the next 24 hours.
Forecasts indicate maximum temperatures are likely to remain between 35°C and 36°C in several parts of the state.
