32°C feels like 41°C amid high humidity in state capital

Panaji: Rising summer heat was felt in the capital on Monday as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded a sharp difference between the actual temperature and the “feels like” temperature during the day.The maximum temperature at 11.30am was 31°C, but the heat index, or “feels like” temperature, was 37°C. The heat intensified further in the afternoon. By 2.30pm, the maximum temperature rose to 32.4°C, which felt like 41.2°C.IMD forecasted dry and sunny weather to prevail over Goa until March 15.Over the next 24 hours, the maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to be around 33°C and 24°C, respectively.The difference between the actual temperature and the heat index is due to high humidity levels. By 5.30pm in Panaji, the maximum temperature was 33.1°C, and the relative humidity was 74%.“The relative humidity increases the discomfort index, making the effective temperature feel much hotter than the actual temperature,” said M R Ramesh Kumar, meteorologist and retired chief scientist, National Institute of Oceanography, Goa.The IMD has advised people to avoid prolonged heat exposure. “Heat cramps and heat rash are likely during peak hours of the day between 11 am and 3 pm.”IMD also urged the public to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.