Goa weather is expected to turn wetter on November 2 and 3, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Panaji, forecasting light rain or thundershowers across the state as two weather systems influence the region.
The forecast follows the formation of a trough in the southeast Arabian Sea off the south Kerala-Karnataka coast and another system over the Bay of Bengal. The Arabian Sea trough is linked to an upper-air cyclonic circulation over the south Maharashtra coast, while a low-pressure area continues over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The IMD had earlier forecast rain in isolated areas on November 4 and 5. The latest forecast indicates that rainfall activity could begin earlier, with the initial spell expected to be light or localised.
Goa recorded 65.3 mm of post-monsoon rainfall in October, against the normal 164.8 mm, resulting in a 60.4% deficit. The state had also experienced a prolonged period of higher day and night temperatures during the month.
Minimum temperatures have since eased. The mercury fell to 21.1°C on Tuesday, 2.4°C below normal, before remaining between 22°C and 23°C on subsequent days. Maximum temperatures, which had crossed normal levels earlier, also moderated. After reaching 36°C, or 3.3°C above normal, on Tuesday, readings recorded by IMD Panaji were 32.8°C and 33.5°C on following days, both within the normal range.
M R Ramesh Kumar, chief scientist (retired) at the National Institute of Oceanography, attributed the cooling to occasional cloud and rain, changing winds and shifts in atmospheric circulation over Goa. He also said winter cooling across the Indian subcontinent and Cyclone Arnab’s landfall on the east coast may have contributed to the temperature decline.
The IMD’s November 2-3 forecast will be relevant for daily travel, outdoor activity and local operations across the state. Clear evening skies can allow daytime radiation to escape quickly, leading to faster cooling and dew formation, according to the report.
