Panaji: The
mercury dropped to the lowest of 18.8C during this season, so far, as the north-easterly winds blew in the Christmassy chill on the eve of the festive season.
The mercury had shown signs of dipping earlier in October and November, and even dropped to 19.5C on November 14. But, fluctuations and very severe cyclonic storm Ockhi interfered with the slide of the mercury.
For about a week, the minimum temperature had been dipping again and on Sunday morning, the chill was sharper than usual. "It is due to north-easterly winds that temperature has come down," M L Sahu, director, India meteorological department (IMD) said.
The mercury dropped 1.7 degrees below normal on Sunday to impart a mild winter chill to Goa's Christmas celebrations, which commence at churches close to midnight, followed by events across the state.
The mercury is likely to fluctuate around 19C during the next few days. While this is the minimum temperature recorded in Panaji, the mercury dips further in hinterland areas of the state. The towns of Valpoi and Sanguem are some of the places which feel the intense cold due to proximity to the Sahyadris.
While the morning chill is becoming sharper, the day temperatures have been a degree or two higher than normal during the last few days. The maximum temperature recorded on Friday was 34.5C, nearly two degrees higher than normal, while 34.2C was recorded on Saturday.
