Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, May 2: Goa is rapidly becoming one of the most heat-affected regions in India this summer, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) recording a maximum temperature of 34.6°C on Wednesday. However, the ‘feels like’ temperature reached an alarming 47.8°C, one of the highest across the country’s IMD stations experiencing extreme heat.

While other regions like Delhi and Bhopal reported higher actual temperatures, Goa’s humidity and atmospheric conditions have significantly amplified the discomfort index, making it feel much hotter. For instance, Delhi’s 37°C was accompanied by a ‘feels like’ temperature of 39-40°C, while Bhopal at 38°C felt like 34°C.

Neighboring districts like Belagavi experienced a 33°C temperature but a ‘feels like’ reading of 38.1°C, and Kerala reported 31.2°C with the same perceived heat. Even in Gujarat, which is also grappling with heat wave-like conditions, the heat index remained below 40°C, except in Bhuj, where it touched 40°C.

Despite higher temperatures elsewhere, Goa’s unique coastal conditions have led to temperatures consistently trending above normal since late February. On Wednesday, the state recorded a temperature 1.2°C above normal. The IMD forecasts no immediate relief, with maximum temperatures in Goa expected to stay between 35°C and 36°C for the next week.

The IMD attributes this persistent heat to a north-south trough linked to an upper-air cyclonic circulation extending from Rajasthan to Kerala, leading to heightened heat and humidity levels along India's western coast, including Goa.