Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, May 24: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Goa, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall across the state till Sunday. The alert follows intense showers in several parts of the coastal state over the past 24 hours.

According to the IMD, Ponda in South Goa recorded the highest rainfall at 162 mm, followed by Dharbandora with 124.2 mm and Margao with 123.4 mm.

In view of the alert, the Goa government has urged the public to avoid rivers and waterfalls. State Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane announced on Saturday that district collectors of North and South Goa have issued circulars banning swimming in rivers and waterfalls until the rain subsides.

“All waterfalls have been shut only for swimming activity. Nobody will be allowed to enter the water due to heavy rains,” Rane said, adding that tourists may still visit waterfalls under forest department supervision.

The IMD has also warned fishermen against venturing into the sea, forecasting squally weather with wind speeds of 40–50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, along the Goa and Konkan coasts.