July turns out to be wet saviour for Goa

The month of July 2009 has brought plenty of cheer to many stakeholders with their fortunes dictated fully or partly by the rains in Goa. In over the last 11 days Goa has witnessed heavy to very heavy rainfall which was received with a welcome lap by most Goans although the heavy downpour did contribute to flooding in some city areas and damaged houses and establishments in certain areas of Goa. However much of that blame has to go to the irresponsible sense of development that has been heaped on Goans by various vested lobbies than the contribution of the blessed rains.

Astonishingly, the rains in the last 11 days have helped to wipe out the deficit of around 15% experienced in last months tally while also producing a surplus of around 25%. In June this year, the seasonal rainfall had been measured at 74 cm as compared to the average of 89 cm for that month.

However the bountiful pouring in the last two weeks have helped the seasonal total to reach 156 cm or 61 inches of rainfall in Goa. So while over 30 days of June provided only 74 cm of rainfall, the last 11 days of July have helped produce over 82 cm of rainfall thereby adding to the obvious cheer.

The total seasonal rainfall that Goa receives is at an average of 262 cm (around 104 inches) which is considered as normal for Goa. With over two months of the monsoon season still to come, there is a widespread positive feeling among meteorologists in Goa that this year would therefore be a normal year of rainfall in Goa.

The month of June 2009 was a shade drier than that in last year which witnessed 78 cm of rainfall compared to 74 cm this year and over 107 cm in 2007. However it was the year 1991 when Goa witnessed the lowest rain turnout in the month of June which was a measly 45 cm while the highest recorded rainfall for Goa in June was observed in June 1999 at a staggering 158 cm of rainfall.

Now "Goencars" on hospitality list of Goa tourism

The "Goencar" or as some write the Indian way as  "Goenkar", or for some people who like to refer to the people of Goa as "Goanese", there seems to be a lot of attention pouring towards this typical Goan in the times of off-season for the tourism industry in Goa where the tourists have steadily dissappeared and currently the eye seems to have shifted to focus on local "Goencars" to come and indulge in some fun and playtime with a few perks here and there to urge them out from the comforts of their Goan homes into the fattened ambience of starred hotels in Goa.

So it is common these days to receive emails and sms over mobile tempting the Goan with a "much necessary" weekend recharge, a sumptuous buffet or a brunch( they call it breakfast and lunch put together), a swimming pool dip, some dancing and partying added with some games for the kids if you have them and a well-dressed-down tariff to suit the imaginations and make your decision ooze out a little faster.

In a way it has been a kind of stretching out to the local Goan community by the hotel fraternity in Goa who seem to be trying to cover their costs in the off-season with some bait for the locals to bite. It is also a good public relation(read PR) exercise for the hotel industry in Goa  as a means of reaching out to Goans by offering discounted packages as above and thereby instilling a sense of goodwill in the Goencars.

The cost per person at the above detailed 'weekend rechargers" is anything between 1,300 - 1800 per person inclusive of food and sometimes unlimited drinks. A weekend recharge normally also includes a room, high tea, dinner, breakfast, Goan lunch and drinks which may be unlimited in certain hotels in Goa.

The perception that the hotel industry is toying with is the fact that Goans hardly need to venture out of Goa since Goa itself is a beautiful place which many Goans have not enjoyed to the hilt. Also monsoons are considered as the best time to venture outside with family and friends besides being a cheaper option in the off-season. A getaway such as this often leads to a recharge of the mind and body and tends to keep you freshly charged for your next routine at the end of the weekend.

The short gasp of the holiday can also be a big boost for the children in Goa who have been typeset with holidays squeezed in only during the vacation period and then have to pour on their books in Goa before the next vacation troops in. Such a short weekend burst tends to soothe children as a pleasant surprise and gives them a short and much needed break from their studies and helps to keep them in a healthy state of mind to recharge their energies.

There are some hotels in Goa which come up with unique catchy captions to promote their weekend bouquets and added with a low cost, such offers become hard to resist. A hotel in north Goa offers a thrill in oriental cuisine at a bargain price of Rs 375/- per person and one has a choice to pick from a  variety in oriental food. The swimming pool is thrown in this package as an incentive and the response is reportedly astounding with families, friends and even the corporate clients pitching in to enjoy the short lived joy.

Another factor that urges people to go in for these short bursts of a holiday is the ease on the pocket which is an affordable deal in the off season. Also the kind of professional service, great food and lovely ambience along with some royal treatment makes these recharge packages very popular in Goa.

It is therefore evident that Goans are now changing in their attitude towards a holiday in Goa itself and many are opening their arms to some good offers from the hotel industry. Besides, Goans also realise that despite being in Goa since birth, most Goans have only ventured to the Goan beaches while most of Goa has not been seen or experienced. The hinterland of Goa is therefore a great attraction for Goans to explore and the tourism for Goans should therefore be directed in that area so that Goans know their Goa better  and enjoy it at the same time.

By Goacom

Met dept observes normal rainfall in Goa for June

The Goa meteorological observatory maintained that Goa had registered a comparatively normal rainfall in the month of June which was measured at 30 inches. The observatory noted that the state of Goa had recorded a 29 inch rainfall for the year 2006, 42 inches during 2007 while 30.5 inch rainfall was recorded in 2008.

The present cloudy rainfall in the state indicated that there is bound to be ample rainfall in the state during the next two days in Goa. However even though Goa has recorded a 30 inch rainfall during the present month ending today, it has been unevenly spread around the state of Goa. However the meteorological department has stated that the overall situation in Goa was Ok and that the rain would pick up momentum. 

The rain shortfall is not expected to cause much problems for the farmers in Goa who spent the first half of the month ploughing their land and raising a nursery while the latter half is spent in transplanting which continues till the middle of July.

The random showers during June helped the irrigation sources and seedlings could be raised with the heavy rains towards the end of June helping the farmers cause greatly.

Rain shortfall dips water in Goa's dams

The shortfall in the rainfall owing to a dry spell currently observed in Goa has led to a significantly lower water level being recorded at the state's major dams of Anjunem and Selaulim. The shortfall at this time in the rainfall against last year is over 10 cms. while the water level in the Anjunem dam was recorded at 74 cms by the end of June in 2008, this year the water level recorded during the same period has been found to be only 67.66 cm which is close to the minimum water level of the dam which is 62 cms.

Last year the Anjunem dam had a water presence of 770 ha/m during the above period. However the current amount of water has been measured to be only 264.7 ha/m as of June 25 2009.

The water level in the Selaulim dam for the year 2008 was 34.74 cm as of June 25 2008 with 10,682 ha/m of water present in the dam. however this year as of June 25 2009, the water level in the dam is 34.74 with the water present in the dam being nearly half the quantity at 5788.40 ha/m. Thankfully, the figure is much above the minimum height of water recorded in the dam which is 20.42 cm.

The water resources department has however dispelled any fears and informed that the current water stored in the dam would suffice the state for the next two months without causing any worries of shortages and the department expected the  water levels to rise by July as the rains begin to pick up.

The water levels in the major water reservoirs of the state are also lower than last year. the water levels at Amthani and Chapoli reservoirs were found to be lesser than last year during the same period. the water level at Opa has also come down this year as compared to 2008.

Rainfall in Goa steadily picking up

Amidst fears of a bad monsoon season and a bleak outlook on farmers in Goa, there are indicators that the rainfall in Goa was steadily picking up. rainfall which deserted Goa for most part of June has slowly opened up mostly in north Goa while Ponda taluka in South Goa has recorded the highest rainfall of 152.5 mm till around 5.30 pm on Saturday 27th June 2009.However the meteorological department sources have said that rainfall is still lacking by over 40 points in Goa.

Seasonal rainfall so far has been recorded at 710.2 mm while the normal rainfall has to be around 764.4 mm. The highest rainfall on Friday 26th June 2009 was 107mm for this season which is lesser than the average recorded in June last year. However it is said to be improving steadily.

Meanwhile the agricultural directorate has expressed hope that things will improve for the farmers of the state as the situation has slowly begun to favour the rain rather than the shine in Goa. farmers in Goa heaved a sigh of relief as the rains had begun to show its better side after pouring in many parts of Salcete earlier this week and light showers to heavy rainfall was witnessed in places such as Majorda, Colva, Nuvem , Navelim, Betalbatim, etc.

The transplantation process in Goa is expected to begin by the end of June and by July 15 the directorate hopes that the transplantation process would be completed and that would be a big relief to the farmers in Goa. while the monsoon had started off pretty well, there was a delay of 10-12 days when the rains lacked any force to pour and there was a dry spell in the state during this period which worried both the farmers as well as the government of Goa.

Goa bound tourists and public advised not to venture into the sea

The tourists visiting Goa have been warned not to venture into the sea from May 27th onwards in view of the increase in the wave intensity due to the forthcoming monsoons.

The public in general and tourists visiting Goa have therefore been advised not to venture into the sea from May 27 to September 15 2009.

The hotel and resort owners in Goa particularly those that are dotted on the beach belt of Goa are advised to take note of the prevailing situations and advise their guests by displaying suitable placards, billboards and  by distributing leaflets containing all information regarding the subject.

In case of emergencies, the following numbers may be contacted.

No	Authority	Telephone number
1	Police ( North Goa )	100 / 2705094
2	Police ( South Goa )	100 / 2705094
3	Tourist Police	2437038
4	Coast Guard	2531718 / 2520584
5	Ambulance (EMRI)	108
6	Department of Tourism	2438750 / 51 / 52
7	Drishti special Response services Pvt Ltd ( Life Guard Services) North Goa	2276987
8	Drishti special Response services Pvt Ltd ( Life Guard Services) South Goa	2780599

Goa bound in summer? Check your food & clothing

The onset of the summer in Goa calls for shedding of inhibitions towards the chilled stuff and people indulge in freaking out on small eats and chilled drinks and ice creams to ward off all the nuances of the weather prevailing in Goa during this time.  

The diet factor can therefore be divided into three segments. Basic water, fluids and basic main course. Water is indeed known as the balm of life. It transfers out the heat from the body through perspiration and thereby keeps the body cooler. It is believed that in the case of children the intake of water should essentially be around three litres in the summer season in Goa while adults should consume around five litres.

Secondly fluids are also an essential intake for the body to simultaneously balance the vital composition of sodium and potassium in the body. Here the Goan tender coconut water is a great choice. Also lime juices, buttermilk and watermelon juice besides lemonades with mint and added salt and sugar can do wonders to cool the body internally.

For the main course, it is always better to take light and easily digestible food in smaller qualities but the frequency of should be more instead of taking big meals once or twice a day. Vegetables should be freshly consumed especially the vegetables that hold a lot of water inside them like bottle gourd, pumpkin, leafy vegetables etc could be the ideal ingredient for curries. Fruits with green salads and sprouts can decorate the dinner table making the meal a real healthy one. Red meats are best avoided along with most non-vegetarian foods and spicy foods when the temperature is on the rise.

For Clothing, it may be the right time for colorful prints and cool dress sense to prevail. Synthetic and layered clothes are a big no-no. Cottons and natural fabric base3d clothing are preferred in light  colours during the peak of a Goan summer. Loose and airy clothes help to give the desired relief from the constant sweat oozing from the body. Elderly people and children should take precautions to protect themselves from direct exposure to the sun and heat by sporting a cap or a hat which also gives a smart look. 

The skin also needs special treatment during summer in Goa. During the summer the vulnerability of the skin comes to the fore as the skin is bound to get exposed to the rays of the sun when you go outdoors in Goa. Taking a bath atleast twice a day reduces the external heat and soothes the skin which has been exposed to the ultra violet rays of the sun, to a large extent. Generous use of Ultra violet screen lotion and powder ( talcum or prickly heat powder) would assist in nourishing the skin. However prickly heat powder is best avoided for children below two years of age.

For people in Goa who  do not have an air-conditioner to reduce the ambient temperature, should use the khas-khas mats ( vottivella chapalu) thick curtains or hang wet bed sheets on the windows and doors to reduce the inflow of heat. Infants may be placed under mosquito nets with a wet cloth cover placed under the fan to give a cooling effect.

If one is affected by the heat it is best to administer a lot of fluids and water preferably with electrolyte compound and rush the victim to the nearest doctor.

There are some home made cooling drinks such as lime juice and sour and sweet drinks which can help in cooling if taken once or twice a day. These drinks need to be served chilled to get the desired effect and has the potential to beat the heat to a large extent.

The easiest mango drink to cool oneself is the Khatta meeta( sweet and sour) which can be prepared by grinding raw mango pulp to a paste and adding sugar and salt to taste. A few mint leaves and crushed roasted jeera to the paste helps it to preserve. Two spoonfuls of this paste in a glass of cold water , well stirred and with few crystals of roc salt is a thirst quencher besides cooling you naturally.

Summer time coolers in Goa

During the months of April and may, Goa is at its hotter end with humidity levels higher than usual. The heat coupled with the high levels of humidity often makes it unbearable leading to dehydration and fatigue. It is therefore that time of the year when people in Goa are thirsting for that super drink to quench themselves.

Also the desire to have a radiantly moist skin free of wrinkles or blemishes is there in almost everyone. The solution to have such a skin is to have lot of fluids free of alcohol.

In Goa traditionally people are known to have natural drinks to quench their thirst and cooling drinks such as tender coconut water, bhindachem sherbet , limbu sherbet and sugarcane juice are often served to guests in Goa.

Fresh lemon juice contains natural citric acid with ample vitamin C which helps to restore the electrolyte balance in the body. Kokum drinks are known to have proven to be effective against obesity. Another drink consumed by Goans during summertime is "kothmir-jeeryanche udak" which is a boiled decoction of coriander and cumin seeds. Drinks such as panak, tender coconut water keep the skin cells hydrated. Juices help our bodies get rid of toxins.

In Goa, Muslims serve sherbet-jaggery mixed with water and often flavoured with cardamom powder - On the day of Muharram. Panak is a juice prepared with kokum, fresh lime and water flavoured with spices. It is rich in vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Panak is served on the day of Gudi Padwa, specially prepared during vaishakhi in Hindu Mutts.

After separating the Kokum rinds, the seeds that are left are soaked in water for 1-2 hours and then drained. The water in which the seeds were dipped is then flavoured with pepper powder, salt and jaggery. This is traditionally prepared in clay pots.

Another way of making panak is by mixing water in fresh kokum extract( agal ) along with pepper powder, salt, ginger juice and jaggery. Instead of using fresh ginger juice, dry ginger powder (soonth) could be used. Another type of panak is made with lime juice, ginger powder, water and jaggery. Panak should be sweet and sour with a pungent tinge. Vitamin C in lime juice protects skin cells from free radical damage. Therefore drinking panak everyday will promote good health, heal your body, give you energy and prevent skin diseases.

Bhindache sherbet is a welcome drink prepared by soaking kokum rinds in water. After draining these, sugar, cumin seed powder and salt are added. Instead of cumin powder it is flavoured at times with cardamom powder. Panhe is prepared by boiling mature firm mangoes in water. the pulp is extracted mixed with sugar, ginger powder or cardamom powder and salt. This can be stored in bottles. In Maharashtra it is prepared by roasting green mangoes.

Limbache sherbet is a mix of lime juice , water, salt and sugar which is often flavoured with cardamom powder. In Goa, Catholics prepare "orchata" from almonds by blanching and then removing their skins. Almonds are then ground into a consistency of thick coconut milk ( aapross) and strained. Almond milk thus extracted is then mixed with a syrup of one string consistency, continuosly stirred so that no lumps are formed. this is cooked till a thick syrup is formed, rose essence or almond essence is added and it is preserved in a bottle. Cashew nuts are used in the preparation in case almonds are unavailable. Orchata is always served on special occasions in diluted form.

Also types of fruit syrups called Xerope are prepared in catholic homes in Goa. Hindus term Xerope as Sherbet. Xeropes are prepared from local limes grown in Goa, which have a thick pale orange skin when ripe. This is known as Xerope de limao. Kokum syrup is called Xerope de brindao whereas Jamun (jambla) syrup is called Xerope de jambulao.Syrups are also prepared from ripe passion fruits.

The most ideal syrup, Xerope or sherbet should always be the refreshing one with the right proportions of all the ingredients used especially the juices and the sugar. With Goa experiencing the heat of the moment, it could be a good time to try your hand at the various options available to Goans to cool themselves the most natural way.

Air-conditioner sales get a boost in Goan summer

The sale of air conditioners in Goa has risen exponentially  in the past couple of months as citizens try to desperately beat the heat in Goa by resorting to cool down the temperatures in offices, shops and homes in Goa through the use of cooling systems.

So traders in Goa who normally sell around five air conditioners per month are now selling around 30 per month thanks to the increased humidity in the state in the month of April and May this year. Also air cooler units blowing cool air, have also seen robust sales this year thanks to the heat in Goa and traders are on song selling a record number of air-coolers in Goa this year.

The popular brands of air-conditioners in Goa range in prices from Rs 16,000 to around 47,000 depending on the type of brand and the capacity. However the 1 tonne and the 1.5 tonne air conditioners are reportedly very popular owing to their mid range size. The brands available in the Goan market are Samsung, Hitachi, LG, Onida, Daikin, Godrej, Blue star , General and Voltas.

It is also notable that the modern air conditioners sold in Goa consume lesser electricity for its use compared to the older models sold a few years back due to which the general public prefers to use an air conditioner compared to earlier trends.

The older generation of airconditioners employed toxic or flammable gases like ammonia, methyl chloride and propane. The usage of such gases could result in fatal accidents when they leaked. In the year 1928, Thomas Midgley Jr, created the first Chlorofluorocarbon gas, Freon, which was much safer for human beings but was later found to be harmful to the ozone layer of the atmosphere.

The blend mostly used in homes and buildings was an HCFC known as R-22. But it is to be phased out for use in new equipment by 2010 and completely discontinued by 2020.

However several non ozone depleting refrigerants have been developed as alternatives including R-410A, known by the brand name of Puron.

Room air-conditioners normally come in two forms or constructions. Unitary and split or packaged terminal PTAC systems. Unitary systems or the common one-room air conditioners sit in the window or wall opening with interior controls. Interior air is cooled as a fan blows it over the evaporator. On the exterior, the air is heated as a second fan blows it over the condenser.

The split AC ( PTAC) on the other hand is frequently used in offices, shops and hotels. It has two separate units ( terminal packages) , the evaporative unit on the exterior and the condensing unit on the interior with tubing passing through the wall and connecting them. This minimises the interior system footprint and allows each room to be adjusted independently.

So how does a Goan make a choice about what kind of AC he should fit in his house , shop or office. here is some advice.

If you want a nice neat look in your premises, the Split AC is a good option. Also if you didn't want to mess with the window, split would be a good idea. Besides if you don't like the external of a window AC hanging out, a split may be a prudent decision. Also the compressor of the split can be located at a far distance through tubing. However if tubing and compressor for split is a problem then surely Window AC is the way to go.

Split AC is also expensive on the budget and you may want to look at that too before making a decision. Window ACs are cheaper and 
subject to the above, both AC's have similar functions in operations and makes no difference to comfort levels.

Goa meet reveals facts on frogs and toads

Goa and Goans made sure that the international day of the frog was celebrated at Porvorim with interactive sessions, presentations and quiz as part of WildGoa's 'Save Our Frogs" campaign.

"Amphibians of Goa" being the theme, a photo exhibition was held in the display area of the eco-store "Earth Worm" to create awareness of the diversity of amphibian species that have been documented in Goa so far.

There was also a visitors area at the exhibition space dedicated to visitors views and suggestions on the "save our Frogs" campaign. Mr Nirmal Kulkarni also gave a powerpoint presentation and talk focussing on the topic "Amphibian Diversity of Goa" where he highlighted the key species that were threatened in Goa due to illegal hunting and trade as well as due to the loss of habitat.

The interactive session saw an attendance of students, wildlife enthusiasts and media persons who also participated in various issues related to amphibian conservation and biology. During the breaks visitors spoke intensely about various issues including garbage management, habitat destruction in the Pilerne lake area and the role of the forest department in the 'Save Our Frogs" campaign.

A quiz on amphibians was later conducted and many unknown facts about frogs and toads were revealed through this medium.

Goa not facing heat wave at present

The Meteorology department, government of Goa has said that the state is not facing a heat wave at present with the department indicating that the temperatures in the state were in the range of 34 degrees Celsius which was the normal range.

In comparison, northern Maharashtra areas such as Bhusaval continued to reel under temperatures as high as 47 degrees according to the department

Heat wave conditions mean atleast 4 degrees celsius above normal, but currently only the minimum temperature was about one degree higher than normal. However the department did not rule out the temperatures going higher for a day or two in the month of May.

The Chief Minister Mr Digambar kamat has asked the health authorities to gear up to over come any after effects of the heat wave in the state at a high level meeting along with health officials.

The highest temperature recorded in the state of Goa was 39.8 degrees celsius in April 1989 and temperatures may reach those figures for a short period of a day or two this month.

The rainfall expected this year was however predicted to be normal with the onset of the monsoon only after May 15. However larger breaks in between the monsoon period is expected if the Monsoon sets early. The national institute of oceanography(NIO) research had pointed out to an increasing dry spells during the monsoon in the months of July and August and attributed them to rapid ocean warming. The study also pointed out that the period between July and August when most dry spells occur contributed to 61 percent of rainfall during monsoons.

Beating the summer in Goa

The scorching heat in the summer is nothing new for Goans or for tourists who visit Goa regularly this time of the year. And now towards end of April and early may it probably tests you near its all  time highs. While many Goans just escape to the water springs and the beaches in Goa there needs to be a regular survival kit to beat the summer.

Here are a few tips which could do just that

Control your diet

• Goan foods are normally hot and spicy. It is best to avoid such foods. Instead try some vegetable based foods such as dal, chapati and Goan vegetable such as ladyfingers etc. Eat moderately as stomach upsets in summer in Goa is not a new phenomenon. 
  
• Water based fruits from Goa are a great escape to beat the heat in Goa and the water melon probably tops the list. Apart for the water melon, cucumber, oranges, carrots and spinach help on the water addition to the body since the humidity in Goa makes the body  lose a fair amount of water. 
  
  
• The Goan coconut water is another source of rich content for the body and although some may prefer to rely on the 'eight glasses a day' theory, it is important that one has enough of water as much as one feels. Goa tender coconut water or lime juice in water ( without sugar preferably) helps to balance the water levels in the body

Hold your temptations

• It is best to avoid food with excessive fat and sodium content. Sodium causes water retention thereby further dehydrating the body. Salty peanuts, chips and oily foods are bad as well. Instead a bowl of fresh fruit or a cup of Yogurt could do wonders

Kid management

• Loss of appetite in kids at this time of the year in Goa is a regular phenomenon and if the kids complain, provide them with compact meals - stuffed parathas, vegetables -sabhji wrapped in Goan chapatis, curd-rice or raitha khichdi
  
• Instead of water, Goan tender coconut water is the best option besides lime juice water or mixed fruit juice.

Caring for your skin

• During the summer in Goa, prickly heat, fungal skin infections and sun burns are the common complaints. In order to avoid these problems, preventive action is a must.
• Prickly heat is caused by an itchy infection mainly due to blockage of sweat glands. The best recourse to combating prickly heat in Goa is by taking a shower twice a day. If more prone, take thrice if possible.
  
• Fungal Skin infection is caused due to excessive perspiration and lack of air circulation. Avoid fabrics which are synthetic and do not wear tight clothes. Also use comfortable footwear and avoid closed shoes.
  
• Sun Burns in Goa are quite a bother for some people in the summer. To beat sun burns it is best to avoid over exposure to the sun which can tan you skin and even burn it. The result is that you develop black skin patches that peel off. Moisturise this affected area and do not pull the peeling skin. General hygiene is the basic requirement and diligent skin care can go a long way in avoiding sun burns. Preventive measures are

1. Taking a shower immediately after any exertion or any exercise
2. Wearing open shoes to allow proper circulation
3. Always wearing a sunblock lotion

Summer ailments

• Summer ailments are also a common feature and you can also get affected in Goa like anywhere else. Summer ailments are mainly caused by poor hygiene, water infections and dehydration. common ailments are
  
• Gastroenteritis : This is mostly common among those who consume pre-cooked meals. During summer, the foods tend to get spoilt faster owing to the heat than in the other seasons in Goa, and consumption of such deteriorated foods can lead to vomiting and food poisoning. The Solution to this ia to have freshly cooked meals and boiled water as also well washed fruits such as oranges, bananas and sweet limes.
  
• Coughs and Colds : During summer due to the fluctuating temperatures in Goa, often due to the difference in temperatures in the street against the temperature of the bedroom or office AC often results in coughs and colds. Excessive consumption of iced water and cold foods are also responsible for this trend. The Solution to this is to maintain a nice transitional AC temperature which could hover between 22-25 degrees. Consume lesser cold foods and beverages in correct measures.

Dehydration Blues

• Over exposure to the summer can be severely dehydrating by snuffing away the essential hydration from the body which then needs to be replenished with water. Giddiness, headaches, fainting and fever are some of the symptoms.
  
  The Solution to this problem is to regularly have an intake of liquids during the day and ear a cap or a hat while you are outdoors in the sun. A shower in between the day is also bound to be a great soother.

Goan beaches to feel the heat of global warming

While people have warmed up to the embrace of the Goan beaches for ages and continue to do so till date, global warming is one such embrace that the Goan beaches would surely want to wish away. However it is one world that we all live in and therefore have to bear the consequences of human neglect towards the environment which seems to be now taking a heavy toll all over the world.

The beaches of Goa are the latest to join the threat posed by global warming and experts feel that due to the phenomenon, rising waters of the sea could submerge beaches in Goa. The alarm was raised amid the dire need for urgent measures due to the fear that sea levels are set to rise by at least one metre, because of the climate change leading to warming of the oceans.

Such action of water rise would normally take thousands of years to happen. However due to the global warming this could take place in around 50 years if no immediate remedial action is not taken.

A rise of one metre would prove disastrous to the coastal areas of Goa which could be a threat to flooding besides the increased sea temperature would induce an increase in winds and therefore more violent seas.Warmer oceans therefore promote hurricanes and storm surges and this may unfortunately be experienced in around 40-50 years. It is estimated that parts of the Indian Ocean are expected to be badly affected by this climactic change.

The year 2007 saw the lowest ice cover in history and though some thought it was a flash in the pan, the same was repeated in 2008 which has alarmed the whole world to be wary of the threat posed by global warming.

20th Feb 2009 - Goa's 2nd Hottest in 38 years

Most recently we had the hottest day in Goa for many decades. However yesterday, the 20th of February was even worse.The mercury soared to an astonishing 39.2 degrees celcius in a Goan February. In fact it was second  hottest day in the last 38 years.

The Highest known recorded temperature in Goa has been 39.8 degrees celcius.However the 20th of February has been the highest since April 7th 1989  when the state had the highest record of 39.8 degrees celcius.

The other higher temperatures recorded in February have been 38 degrees celcius on February 29th 1984 and 37.6 degrees celcius on February 20th 1999.

Although the temperature was high as reported, the low humidity at 63% in the morning and around 48% in the evening surely was a welcome relief to Goan citizens