Staff Reporter
Panaji
After two weeks of heat warnings, the India meteorological department (IMD) finally lifted the heat alert on Monday. However, the maximum temperature is still expected to hover between 34-35°C for the next four days—one degree above normal.
On Sunday the state saw the maximum temperature of 36°C.
Although the IMD has withdrawn the heat alert, the humidity is still high in the state.
The IMD attributed the easing of the heatwave to a trough in westerlies extending from north interior Karnataka to the Gulf of Mannar across Tamil Nadu, at 0.9 km above mean sea level.
This shift in atmospheric patterns has ‘moderated’ the extreme heat that had made daily life increasingly uncomfortable.
Over the past two weeks, the state witnessed soaring temperatures, with Panaji recording highs of 36.8°C, which was 2.7°C above normal, while other days saw peaks of 36.7°C—4.3°C above
normal.
The oppressive heat made conditions particularly harsh for vulnerable people, including the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.
According to IMD’s latest forecast, dry conditions will persist across North and South Goa, with daytime temperatures expected to stay in the 34-35°C range. While this is still above the seasonal norm, it represents a decline from last week’s extreme highs. Shallow to moderate fog is also likely in the early mornings.
The IMD advised people to continue exercising caution, especially during peak sun hours (11 am – 3 pm).
