March: Transition period for Mumbai and Goa

The sun started its northward journey in January and South India, including Mumbai and Goa, being closer to the equator will start heating up faster than the northern parts. Over the course of March, the length of day gradually increases with 31^st March being the longest day with more than 12 hours of daylight. In this article we will take a look at the change in weather conditions in these two places with the movement of the sun.

The summer season in these two places begins in March which accompanies sunny warm days followed by pleasant evenings. The weather in Mumbai and Goa remains hot and humid and March is undoubtedly the hottest time of the year for these popular tourist destinations. The mean average maximum in March is 34°C to 35°C. The maximums can go beyond 35°C and the increased humidity level makes it worse. The minimum average also takes a 4°C to 5°C jump from the mean average of February. According to the latest weather update, the day temperatures have already started rising and since the last few days Mumbai and Goa have been among the hottest regions in the country.

A senior at Skymet's Meteorology Division in India says that, March is the transition period and what is peculiar to Mumbai is the change in wind patterns. The temperatures here are governed by the winds. North easterly winds blowing at night till early morning keeps the mornings pleasant with temperatures around 18°C. These are also known as land breeze. Winds change during afternoon hours to become westerly to south westerly winds blowing from the sea.

March is generally spared of any significant weather. As precipitation is minimal, there is no chance of any respite other than for the cool breeze at night. The bright sun will snatch the fun quotient from the otherwise exciting beaches of Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, Vagatore, Palolem and the like.

picture courtesy-Sarabjit Singh