Heatwave Alert: IMD Extends Yellow Warning as Temperatures Soar in Goa!

After several days of intense heat, Panaji’s temperature dropped slightly to 34.2°C on Friday, just 1.5°C above normal. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has extended the yellow alert for heatwave-like conditions until March 15. On Thursday, the city recorded a maximum of 35.4°C, which was 2.7°C above normal, while in Mormugao, temperatures decreased to 35.2°C on Friday from 36.2°C the previous day. Humidity levels remained high, with Panaji at 73% and Mormugao at 90%.

Sea breezes helped provide some relief in coastal areas, though inland regions continued to experience extreme heat. IMD forecasts dry conditions with maximum temperatures between 34-36°C in the coming days, with some isolated pockets likely to face heatwave-like conditions and shallow fog. The minimum temperature rose to 26°C in both Panaji and Mormugao, about 3°C above normal, compared to 24.6°C the previous day. Despite a slight dip in temperatures, the heat remains a concern, and IMD advises caution as high temperatures persist across the region.

Heatwave Alert: IMD Extends Yellow Warning as Temperatures Soar in Goa!

North Karnataka is grappling with a severe heatwave, with 56 locations recording temperatures exceeding 40°C in the past 24 hours, according to the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC). Kallur Hobli in Raichur district registered the state’s highest temperature at 42.4°C, underscoring the intensity of the rising mercury. The relentless heat has swept across multiple districts, raising concerns over health risks and water scarcity.

Regional Breakdown of Heatwave Conditions

KSNDMC data reveals a widespread impact, with Kalaburagi district reporting 13 areas crossing the 40°C threshold, followed by Bagalkot and Raichur (eight locations each), Vijayapura (seven), Bidar and Yadgir (five each), Belagavi (three), Dharwad, Gadag, and Vijayanagara (two each), and Ballari (one). Specific hotspots include Anantpur, Telsang, and Kudchi in Belagavi; Dummawada and Chabbi in Dharwad; and Konnur and Hole Alur in Gadag. These figures highlight the extensive reach of the heatwave, particularly in northern and interior regions.

Forecast Warns of Escalating Temperatures

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning, predicting a further rise of 2–3°C in North and South Interior Karnataka over the next three days. This upward trend aligns with typical pre-monsoon heating patterns but raises alarms due to its severity. Meanwhile, coastal areas, including Panaji and Mormugao, experienced marginal relief. Panaji’s maximum temperature dropped to 34.2°C on Friday, just 1.5°C above normal, down from 35.4°C the previous day. Similarly, Mormugao saw a slight dip to 35.2°C (3.3°C above normal) from 36.2°C. However, the IMD has extended a yellow alert for heatwave-like conditions in these regions until March 15, urging residents to remain cautious.

Humidity and Coastal Winds Offer Partial Respite

Coastal zones benefited from morning and afternoon sea breezes, moderating daytime temperatures. However, humidity levels remained elevated, with Panaji at 73% (8% above average) and Mormugao at 90% (11% above normal). While the breeze alleviated discomfort in coastal towns, inland areas continued to endure oppressive heat without similar relief.

Night Temperatures Climb

Minimum temperatures also rose, with Panaji and Mormugao both recording 26°C overnight—3°C above normal—compared to 24.6°C the previous day. This upward trend in nighttime heat reduces opportunities for natural cooling, exacerbating health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.

IMD’s Outlook and Precautions

The IMD forecasts persistent dry conditions, with daytime temperatures hovering between 34°C and 36°C in coastal regions. Isolated areas may experience heatwave-like conditions, accompanied by shallow fog in some pockets. Authorities advise residents to avoid direct sun exposure, stay hydrated, and monitor weather updates. Farmers are cautioned about potential impacts on crops, while urban centers face heightened risks of heat-related illnesses.

Conclusion

As Karnataka battles this early-season heatwave, the combination of high daytime temperatures, elevated humidity, and warm nights underscores the need for adaptive measures. While coastal breezes provide temporary relief, the broader trend of rising temperatures signals a challenging summer ahead. With the IMD’s warnings in place, proactive steps to mitigate heat impacts remain critical for public health and safety. The coming days will test the state’s preparedness as it navigates the delicate balance between natural weather patterns and climate resilience.