Severe Heatwave Alert for Delhi and Rajasthan; Mercury Hits 45C

A brutal heatwave is sweeping across 15 states in India, with the IMD warning of rising temperatures over the next few days. The plains of North India, including the Delhi-NCR region, are witnessing a sharp spike in mercury levels. After a brief period of rain-induced relief, Delhi is back under a yellow alert with maximum temperatures projected to reach 44-45 degrees Celsius. In Rajasthan, the situation is even more dire, with several districts reporting 'Loo' conditions and dust storms. The state government has issued health advisories, urging citizens to stay hydrated and avoid direct sunlight between 12 PM and 4 PM. In contrast to the scorching heat in the north, South India is preparing for the official onset of the monsoon. The IMD has observed the monsoon's advancement into the south-eastern Arabian Sea and the Comorin area. Kerala has already begun experiencing pre-monsoon showers, and orange alerts have been issued for several districts. Meanwhile, hilly states like Uttarakhand are also seeing unusually high temperatures in their plain regions like Haridwar and Dehradun, where the thermometer has touched the 40-degree mark. The health department has been directed to ensure hospitals are equipped to handle cases of heatstroke and dehydration as the country navigates this period of extreme weather volatility.