Panaji: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for Goa, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall across the state. The alert, which began on Friday (May 23), will remain in effect until Sunday (May 25), according to the IMD’s official website.
In response to the alert, State Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane on Saturday said that people are strictly prohibited from swimming in waterfalls and rivers due to strong water currents caused by the heavy rains.
“All waterfalls have been shut for swimming activities, based on orders from both District Collectors. No one will be allowed to enter the water due to the heavy rains,” Rane told PTI.
He added that even after the rains subside, swimming will not be permitted for some time as a safety precaution.
“People may visit waterfalls only under the supervision of the Forest Department,” he said.
On Friday, many parts of Goa experienced heavy to very heavy rainfall. According to the IMD, the highest temperature recorded in the state was 30.4°C at Mormugao (South Goa), while the lowest was 23.9°C at Dabolim (South Goa).
In terms of rainfall, Ponda (South Goa) received the highest at 162 mm, followed by Dharbandora with 124.2 mm, and Margao at 123.4 mm.
The IMD has also advised fishermen not to venture into the sea, as squally weather is expected, with wind speeds ranging from 40 to 50 km/h, gusting up to 60 km/h along and off the Goa and Konkan coast.
