Panaji, the state capital of Goa, experienced its hottest day of the summer season so far on Thursday, with the maximum temperature reaching 35.3 degrees Celsius. However, the feels-like temperature surged to a scorching 47 degrees Celsius due to high humidity levels, as reported by the India Meteorological Department.
Record Feels-Like Temperature
According to data from the India Meteorological Department, the feels-like temperature, which factors in humidity, had not exceeded 43 degrees Celsius this season until now. This development follows the IMD's issuance of a yellow alert for April 23, warning of heat and humidity across Goa. As per IMD classification, a yellow alert in summer signifies a Heat Alert, indicating heatwave-like conditions that may persist for up to two days.
Heatwave Criteria Not Yet Met
While conditions are oppressive, they do not yet meet the technical threshold for a declared heatwave in Goa. IMD criteria specify that a heatwave is declared when the departure from normal maximum temperature is 4.5 degrees Celsius or more and the actual maximum temperature reaches at least 37 degrees Celsius.
Forecast for Partial Relief
The IMD has forecast a slight shift in weather conditions over the next two days, offering partial relief. On April 24, isolated light to moderate rainfall or thundershowers are expected during late afternoon or evening hours over Goa. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching 30 to 40 kilometers per hour are also likely at isolated locations. Despite this, hot and humid conditions are expected to persist in pockets.
Similar conditions are forecast for April 25, with isolated light rainfall or thundershowers in the late afternoon or evening. Hot and humid weather will continue, and no significant change in maximum or minimum temperatures is anticipated.
Advisory for Residents
Residents have been advised to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours.
Weather Observations
Weather observations recorded on Thursday indicate above-normal daytime temperatures, with humidity levels remaining high. Panaji's maximum temperature reached 35.3 degrees Celsius, which is 1.7 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average, while the minimum temperature was 26.5 degrees Celsius. Relative humidity was recorded at 69 percent. At Mormugao, the maximum temperature climbed to 34.8 degrees Celsius, registering a 1.5 degree Celsius departure above normal. However, the minimum temperature dipped slightly below average at 25.6 degrees Celsius, which is 1 degree Celsius lower than usual. Humidity levels in Mormugao were elevated, recorded at 89 percent, a notable 13 percent above normal.
