Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, May 1: Goa has emerged as one of the most heat-affected regions in the country this summer, registering a staggering ‘feels like’ temperature of 47.8°C—the highest in India according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

On Wednesday, while the actual maximum temperature in Goa stood at 34.6°C, the oppressive humidity pushed the discomfort index dramatically upward, far surpassing readings from states with higher ambient temperatures.

In comparison, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 37°C with a heat index of around 39-40°C, while Bhopal, despite touching 38°C, showed a significantly lower ‘feels like’ value of 34°C. Neighbouring Belagavi posted 33°C with a heat index of 38.1°C, and Kerala matched that figure with a modest maximum of 31.2°C.

Even Gujarat, under heat wave-like conditions, reported a heat index below 40°C, barring Bhuj which hit that mark. Several IMD stations in Maharashtra noted slightly higher actual temperatures than Goa, but none crossed a 42°C ‘feels like’ threshold.

According to the IMD, the oppressive heat in Goa is the result of a north-south trough linked to an upper-air cyclonic circulation stretching from southwest Rajasthan to north Kerala. This system, located 1.5 km above mean sea level, is trapping humidity along India’s western coast, exacerbating heat stress in Goa.

With no immediate respite on the horizon, temperatures in the state are forecast to hover between 35°C and 36°C over the next week. The state’s temperature on Wednesday was 1.2°C above normal, continuing a trend of consistently higher-than-average heat since late February, broken only by a few isolated days.

As Goa swelters under peak summer conditions, health officials are advising residents and tourists alike to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.