Panaji: Cautioning residents that hot and humid weather is expected to grip Goa over the next few days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a yellow alert for the state.
The advisory, effective particularly on April 15 and 16, signals conditions that may not be hazardous but could cause significant discomfort, especially for the vulnerable groups.
According to the IMD’s district-wise forecast, temperatures are projected to hover above the seasonal norms, with maximum temperatures likely ranging between 33 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius along the coastal belt. Inland areas could experience even higher readings.
However, it is the sharp rise in humidity – estimated to be between 70% and 85% – that is expected to intensify the temperature, pushing it closer to 40 degrees Celsius in some pockets.
Meteorologists pointed out that the absence of pre-monsoon showers, combined with weak coastal winds, has reduced the natural cooling mechanisms. Night-time temperatures are also unlikely to offer relief, remaining around 26 degrees Celsius to 27 degrees Celsius.
The yellow alert serves as a precautionary signal, urging citizens to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours and take necessary precautions. While no extreme weather events are anticipated, IMD emphasised that prolonged exposure could lead to heat-related stress.
From April 17 onwards, conditions are expected to stabilise marginally with no warning in place, though warm and humid weather will persist.
