Team Herald
PANJIM: In view of the persistence of above normal temperatures in the coastal State, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heat wave warning for Goa on Thursday and Friday.
It is pertinent to note that Goa has been experiencing warmer days since mid-February.
Goa is currently battling several simultaneous wildfires especially within the Mhadei wildlife sanctuary and in several other parts of the state.
Rising unusual temperature is one of the possible causes attributed to these fires. IMD has said that one of the possible impacts of rising temperatures or heat waves is that the dry grass can catch fire.
IMD Goa in-charge Rahul said that the maximum temperature over Goa is likely to remain 4-6 Degree Celsius above the normal value.
He said that since March 1, till date, the maximum temperature has been above 36 Degree Celsius for the continuous period.
“Because of the strengthening of easterly winds, clear sky conditions and delay in setting time of sea breeze, the maximum temperature over Goa is likely to remain above normal for these two days. Persistence of these conditions is likely to satisfy the criteria of heat wave over the region on March 8 and 9,” he said adding ‘the situation will prevail even on March 10’.
Sea breeze helps regulate temperature by bringing in moist air from the sea and increasing humidity.
Rahul said that since the last 30-40 years, it was only in 2013 when the temperature remained above 36 or over 37 Degree Celsius for a constant period.
On Wednesday, Panjim station reported 38.4 Degree Celsius maximum temperature, which is 6 Degree Celsius above normal.
A heat wave warning is issued when the maximum temperature is greater than or equal to 37 Degree Celsius or departure of maximum temperature from normal is greater than 4.5 Degree Celsius for two continuous days, then the second day is considered to have realised the heat wave conditions.
Rahul said that the maximum temperatures are likely to fall gradually by 2-3 degrees from March 11 onwards.
IMD has asked citizens to avoid getting exposed to heat and stay hydrated and protect themselves from dehydration.
