Goa Records Fifth Highest October Rainfall in a Century
Goa has recorded its fifth highest October rainfall in a century, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reporting a total of 374.6mm of rain during October 2025. The data places this year among the top 10 wettest Octobers since records began, highlighting the growing variability of weather patterns across the state.
Exceptional Rainfall Driven by Late Monsoon Depression
According to the IMD, the heavy rainfall in the last week of October from the 24th to the 31st contributed to over 60% of the total monthly precipitation.
Meteorologist and retired NIO scientist Dr. M. R. Ramesh Kumar attributed this unusual surge to a depression system over the southeastern Arabian Sea, which brought persistent rain and strong winds to Goa’s coastal belt. This weather phenomenon, he noted, reflects the increasing impact of late monsoon activity on Goa’s climate pattern, posing new challenges for both urban and rural areas.
Goa’s Rainiest Octobers: Historical Perspective
Data from IMD shows that Goa’s wettest October on record occurred in 2019, with 546.8mm of rainfall, followed by 2006 (423.8mm), 1955 (413.2mm), and 1985 (394.3mm).
The 2025 rainfall of 374.6mm places it fifth, reinforcing the long-term trend of fluctuating post-monsoon intensity in the region. Such patterns, meteorologists say, underline the need for improved rainfall forecasting, disaster preparedness, and water management planning in coastal states like Goa.
Uneven Rainfall Distribution Across the State
Rainfall distribution was far from uniform this October. Pernem and Mormugao recorded the highest rainfall at 498mm each, while Valpoi registered the lowest at 209mm.
The variation reflects how topography and coastal proximity influence rainfall intensity. Several low-lying areas in North Goa experienced temporary flooding and drainage blockages during the final week of the month.
Municipal teams and local bodies were mobilized to ensure swift dewatering operations and sanitation measures in affected zones.
State Response and Preparedness
Goa’s disaster management and health departments activated post-monsoon readiness protocols to address waterlogging, vector control, and possible health risks.
Hospitals and local administrations were placed on alert to handle potential spikes in dengue, malaria, and waterborne diseases, which often follow periods of excessive rainfall.
Officials reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring a coordinated response involving panchayats, municipalities, and urban bodies to minimize disruption and safeguard communities.
Climate Change and the Road Ahead
Experts have linked the growing unpredictability of rainfall events to climate change and sea-surface temperature variations in the Arabian Sea.
Dr. Kumar noted that such extreme weather episodes are expected to become more frequent, requiring stronger urban planning, flood control systems, and climate adaptation strategies in Goa.
The IMD continues to monitor rainfall patterns closely, providing regular updates to support sustainable water management and disaster resilience initiatives across the state.
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