As temperatures continue to soar past 45 degrees Celsius across several Indian states, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar has sparked a nationwide conversation with her three simple desi hacks to beat the summer heat. The nutritionist, known for guiding Kareena Kapoor’s lifestyle, took to Instagram on May 26, urging Indians to ditch cold drinks and air conditioners for age-old remedies that cool the body from within.

The Vetiver Root Revival

The first hack involves adding two to three strands of vetiver roots (vala or khus) to drinking water. “This is India’s OG-infused water,” Diwekar said in her video. The roots naturally sweeten the water while providing a cooling effect that works internally. Diwekar pointed out that in peak summer, most people struggle to drink enough plain water. The roots can be reused for up to three days and later tossed into bathing water. Historically, hand-held fans and curtains in North Indian homes were woven from vetiver, cooling both people and rooms.

Henna – The Forgotten Cooling Ritual

The second hack is as familiar as childhood summer holidays. Diwekar recommends applying mehndi on hands, explaining that henna actively draws heat out through the palms — one of the body’s key heat-release points. “It naturally cools, but it also gives you a slow life. It works as a de-stressor,” she said. The fragrance uplifts mood and helps calm the mind.

Chaas – The Daily Essential

The third and perhaps most practical hack is buttermilk (chaas). Diwekar recommends consuming it two to three times daily during summer. “Chaas has protein, calcium, B12. We now know it also works as a prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic,” she explained. With salt, hing, and cumin powder, it supports digestion, maintains appetite, reduces bloating, and improves skin glow.

As India battles one of its hottest summers on record, these natural health hacks offer a timely reminder that the best solutions often lie in grandmother’s kitchen, not in a pharmacy.

In a significant move to protect citizens from the ongoing heatwave, the Ministry of Ayush, in coordination with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), has issued a comprehensive Public Health Advisory on Extreme Heat for the summer of 2026.

Government’s Official Guidelines

The advisory emphasises adequate hydration, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, wearing light cotton clothing, and consuming seasonal fruits and fluids rich in electrolytes. Vulnerable groups including infants, children, pregnant women, elderly persons, and outdoor workers require special care.

AYUSH-Approved Electrolyte Hydrators

The advisory highlights traditional combinations that act as natural oral rehydration solutions. Coconut water is labelled as nature’s ultimate electrolyte drink, replenishing potassium and magnesium lost through sweat. Homemade lemon water with salt, buttermilk with salt, and sugarcane juice packed with calcium, magnesium, and iron are strongly recommended.

Traditional Deep-Cooling Drinks

The advisory explicitly recommends Amra Prapanaka (raw mango panna), a classic remedy for preventing heatstroke. Nannari Paanagam, a Siddha drink with Indian sarsaparilla and sabja seeds, and Bael Sharbat made from wood apple are also highlighted. Citizens are encouraged to infuse drinking water with khus (vetiver), jeera, or coriander seeds.

High-Water Foods for Daily Diet

The advisory urges the public to include cucumber, watermelon, lime, musk melon, ash gourd, and tomatoes in their daily diet. Sattu drink and falsa (Indian blackberry) are recommended as cooling snacks.

Yoga and Breathing Techniques

The Siddha and Yoga sections advise adopting Sheetali Pranayama and gentle yoga practices for maintaining thermal comfort.

With the India Meteorological Department predicting continued high temperatures, the Ministry of Ayush’s advisory serves as a crucial government update for public safety.

As temperatures continue to soar across the country, the Ministry of Ayush and the Directorate General of Health Services have issued a comprehensive public health advisory recommending traditional wellness practices to combat heat-related illnesses. The advisory comes as several parts of India are experiencing extreme heatwave conditions, with mercury touching record levels in many states.

The advisory provides detailed guidance for the general public, with special emphasis on vulnerable groups including infants, children, pregnant women, elderly persons, outdoor workers, and individuals suffering from chronic illnesses such as heart disease and hypertension. These groups require special care and monitoring during heatwave conditions, officials stated.

The Ayurveda section of the advisory recommends cooling dietary practices and intake of hydrating beverages such as buttermilk, coconut water, and lemon-based drinks. Traditional preparations including Nimbukaphala Panaka (lemonade), Amra Prapanaka (raw mango sharbat), and Chincha Panaka (tamarind drink) have been recommended to help regulate body temperature during extreme heat.

The Siddha and Yoga sections advise the adoption of cooling refreshments and breathing techniques such as Sheetali Pranayama, along with gentle yoga practices to reduce heat stress. Sheetali Pranayama, which involves curling the tongue and inhaling through the mouth, produces a cooling effect on the body and has emerged as the most recommended breathing technique for summer wellness.

The advisory further encourages people to include hydrating and cooling food items such as cucumber, watermelon, lime, musk melon, ash gourd, and tomatoes in their daily diet during the summer season. Citizens have been advised to regularly follow weather updates issued by the India Meteorological Department and take necessary precautions during heatwave alerts.

The advisory cautions citizens to remain alert for danger signs of heat-related illnesses such as dizziness, headache, nausea, altered mental status, high body temperature, dehydration, seizures, and fainting. Heatstroke has been identified as a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention, with the advisory recommending prompt use of emergency helplines 108 or 102 in severe cases.

Health officials expect these natural health measures to become essential knowledge for every Indian household as summer temperatures continue rising. The recognition of traditional wellness practices in official health advisories represents a significant milestone in integrating age-old wisdom with modern health guidelines.

In view of rising temperatures across the country, the Directorate General of Health Services, in coordination with the Ministry of Ayush, has issued a comprehensive public health advisory recommending traditional wellness practices to combat heat-related illnesses.

As heatwave conditions continue to prevail in several parts of India, the Ayush Vertical under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, in coordination with the Ministry of Ayush, has issued a comprehensive Public Health Advisory on Extreme Heat/Heatwave for the current summer season. The advisory, released on May 18, 2026, provides detailed guidance for the general public, vulnerable groups, employers, workers, and participants in mass gatherings.

According to the advisory, infants, children, pregnant women, the elderly, outdoor workers, and individuals suffering from chronic illnesses such as heart disease and hypertension are particularly vulnerable during heatwave conditions and require special care and monitoring.

The advisory incorporates traditional wellness and preventive measures from various AYUSH systems. The Ayurveda section recommends cooling dietary practices, intake of hydrating beverages such as buttermilk, coconut water and lemon-based drinks, and use of traditional preparations including Nimbukaphala Panaka (lemonade), Amra Prapanaka (raw mango sharbat) and Chincha Panaka (tamarind drink) to help regulate body temperature during extreme heat.

The Siddha and Yoga sections advise the adoption of cooling refreshments and breathing techniques such as Sheetali Pranayama, along with gentle yoga practices to reduce heat stress. Sheetali Pranayama, a breathing technique that involves curling the tongue and inhaling through the mouth, is known to have a cooling effect on the body.

The advisory further encouraged people to include hydrating and cooling food items such as cucumber, watermelon, lime, musk melon, ash gourd and tomatoes in their daily diet during the summer season. Citizens have also been advised to regularly follow weather updates issued by the India Meteorological Department and take necessary precautions during heatwave alerts.

The advisory urged citizens to remain alert for symptoms of heat-related illnesses such as dizziness, headache, nausea, altered mental status, high body temperature, dehydration, seizures and loss of consciousness. Heatstroke has been identified as a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention, with the advisory recommending prompt use of emergency helplines 108 or 102 in severe cases.

As mercury touches 46°C in parts of India, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar recommends three traditional, science-backed remedies to cool the body from within without relying on air conditioners.

With the India Meteorological Department recording temperatures soaring past 46°C in the national capital region, the search for effective cooling solutions has become a matter of daily survival. While air conditioners and coolers provide temporary relief, they cannot address the fundamental issue—cooling the body from the inside out.

On May 26, 2026, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar, known for her work with Kareena Kapoor and other Bollywood stars, took to social media to share three traditional Indian remedies that have been used for centuries. These ancestral practices, she emphasised, offer sustainable, nature-based methods to manage dehydration and maintain physical wellness.

The first recommendation is to add two or three wala or vetiver roots to your daily drinking water. The roots naturally add a mild sweetness and, more importantly, bring a cooling effect that works from the inside out. You can reuse the same roots for up to three days before tossing them into your bathing water.

Diwekar pointed out that in peak summer, most people genuinely struggle to drink enough water because plain water doesn’t feel appealing. The vetiver roots solve that problem naturally. Interestingly, the traditional hand-held fans used in India before electricity were often woven from vetiver, and the grass curtains behind coolers in North Indian homes also came from these roots.

The second hack is applying natural henna or mehndi on the hands. Diwekar stresses that this age-old technique, which many grew up with but have now forgotten, not only cools the body naturally but also gives a sense of a slow life. Henna has properties that actively draw heat out through the palms, which is one of the body’s key heat-release points.

The third recommendation is consuming buttermilk or chaas two to three times a day during the summer season. The whey in buttermilk contains protein, calcium, and B12, and works as a prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic. Adding a little salt, asafoetida, and cumin powder to buttermilk corrects electrolyte imbalance caused by dehydration, aids digestion, and prevents loss of appetite.

While these are things individuals can do at home, Diwekar also noted that the need of the hour is for policymakers to step in and protect homes from getting overheated. As India continues to grapple with extreme weather events, a combination of individual action and systemic change will be crucial.

With night temperatures staying above 32°C across 14 Indian states, sleep disorders have increased significantly this summer. Ayurvedic experts are now sharing natural sleep hacks to help people rest without relying on air conditioners.

The body needs to drop its core temperature by 1-2°C to initiate deep sleep. High humidity prevents sweat evaporation, trapping body heat. Experts warn that forced AC sleep can cause respiratory issues for a significant number of users.

Ayurvedic texts offer simple solutions. Head oil massage with cooled coconut oil for ten minutes reduces cortisol levels and signals sleep readiness. The wet cloth technique—hanging a wet cotton bedsheet near the window—creates natural evaporative cooling, reducing room temperature by 3-5 degrees.

Replacing synthetic pillow stuffing with dried vetiver roots (khus) or mint leaves creates natural cooling throughout the night. Placing fresh neem leaves between the cotton sheet and mattress can lower surface temperature by 3-4°C.

Sheetali Pranayama, a breathing technique involving curling the tongue, directly cools the blood passing through the carotid arteries. Washing feet with cool water before bed, known as pada abhyanga, lowers core body temperature. A 2025 study found this improved sleep onset time by 35%.

A Bengaluru-based sleep clinic reported that patients using these Ayurvedic hacks reduced AC usage by 70% while improving sleep quality. The Ministry of AYUSH has announced plans to distribute guidebooks on these natural methods through primary health centers.

As the sweltering summer of 2026 takes a toll on health, Ayurvedic experts highlight the importance of eating "cooling" foods rather than just relying on air conditioners for relief.

Patanjali Ayurveda, rooted in classical science, explains that the real problem in summer is aggravated "Pitta" dosha. External heat aggravates internal fire, leading to acidity, skin rashes, and low energy. The solution lies in consuming foods that are sweet, bitter, and astringent in nature.

Watermelon, containing over 90% water, is a top recommendation for hydration. Nutritionists also suggest eating the white rind near the green skin, which contains citrulline to help the body release trapped heat. Muskmelon and grapes are also rich in antioxidants and provide quick electrolyte support.

Cucumber, which is 95% water, requires almost no digestive effort and delivers steady hydration. Ayurvedic experts at IMS-BHU recommend Aam Panna (raw mango drink) as one of the most effective remedies against heatstroke. Coriander seed water and fennel seed water are also recommended to calm Pitta Dosha.

Health experts suggest drinking tender coconut water between 10 AM and 12 PM when the body's heat levels naturally rise. Eating cucumber slices dipped in fresh curd works better for reducing summer headaches than eating them separately.

The DGHS advisory encourages the public to include cooling food items such as cucumber, watermelon, lime, musk melon, ash gourd, and tomatoes in their daily diet. These natural foods are effective in combating heatwave conditions.

The southwest monsoon has remained stuck for 11 days, leaving 19 states awaiting widespread rainfall as multiple weather systems and emerging El Niño signals slow its progress.

The southwest monsoon has lost momentum after making rapid progress across large parts of the country earlier this month, leaving several states waiting for sustained rainfall. Weather officials say a combination of five active atmospheric systems is currently affecting monsoon circulation, resulting in a significant slowdown and widening rainfall deficits across India.

The monsoon, which reached Telangana on June 8, has remained virtually stationary since then. Over the past 11 days, it has failed to advance further into several regions, raising concerns among farmers and state administrations as temperatures continue to remain high in many areas.

According to rainfall data between June 1 and June 18, India has recorded 38% below-normal precipitation. Maharashtra and Gujarat have emerged among the worst-affected states, reporting rainfall deficits of around 78% and 79%, respectively.

Moisture Flow Weakens

Meteorologists attribute the slowdown to a rare situation where multiple weather systems are operating simultaneously and interfering with the normal monsoon pattern.

Moisture-bearing winds from the Arabian Sea have weakened, while cloud bands moving northward from southern India have failed to advance as expected. These disruptions have prevented the monsoon current from strengthening over central and northern parts of the country.

As a result, widespread monsoon rainfall remains absent across several regions despite favourable calendar dates for its arrival.

Heat Persists Despite Showers

Pre-monsoon activity continues in parts of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi and Chhattisgarh. However, these scattered showers have not been enough to bring lasting relief from the heat.

Several locations across seven states recorded temperatures above 40°C on Wednesday. Banda in Uttar Pradesh emerged as the hottest place in the country at 43.2°C.

Temperatures also crossed 42°C in parts of Odisha and Maharashtra, while districts in Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh continued to experience intense daytime heat.

The combination of delayed monsoon rainfall and persistent high temperatures has increased discomfort levels, particularly in rural areas dependent on early-season agricultural activity.

El Niño Concerns Return

Adding to concerns, recent observations from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) suggest early signs of developing El Niño conditions.

According to the report, the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), a critical weather belt that helps draw moisture towards the Indian subcontinent, has not shifted northward at its usual pace. The delayed movement has contributed to the sluggish advance of the monsoon.

Satellite imagery indicates active thunderstorm development over eastern India, while cloud cover remains comparatively weak across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat and large parts of western India.

Experts caution that if El Niño conditions strengthen, rainfall distribution during the season could become uneven, increasing the likelihood of prolonged dry spells in some regions.

Heavy Rain In North Bengal

While many states await monsoon rains, parts of West Bengal have witnessed the opposite situation.

Heavy rainfall in Darjeeling district led to the collapse of a bridge over the swollen Balason River, disrupting road connectivity between Siliguri and the Mirik subdivision. North Bengal districts including Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Jalpaiguri have received intense rainfall over the past two days following the monsoon's arrival in the state on June 9.

Authorities are monitoring vulnerable areas as rain-related incidents continue to be reported.

Relief Expected Soon

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that conditions may improve over the next four to five days.

Officials say the current jet stream pattern, which has been restricting monsoon movement, is expected to weaken gradually. This could allow the monsoon to regain strength and advance into Maharashtra, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh and adjoining regions.

Rainfall activity is also expected to increase across eastern India, the Northeast and parts of central India over the next few days.

States Remain On Alert

Several states have already issued weather advisories. Rajasthan has placed more than 30 districts under thunderstorm and rainfall alerts, while Bihar remains under an orange alert for strong winds and rain. Uttarakhand has warned Char Dham pilgrims and residents in vulnerable districts to remain cautious amid forecasts of fresh showers.

In Madhya Pradesh, where rainfall remains 39% below normal, the monsoon is now expected to arrive around June 25, nearly 10 days later than its usual schedule.

With the sowing season approaching in many regions, the progress of the monsoon over the coming week will be closely watched by farmers, policymakers and weather experts alike.

Despite the current slowdown, meteorologists remain optimistic that conditions could become favorable for the monsoon to advance again within the next 4–5 days, with progress likely resuming between June 21 and June 23.

Third Consecutive Year of June Slowdown

The western branch of the monsoon has faced interruptions in recent years as well. In 2024, its advance slowed for about 8–9 days during the second week of June. In 2025, it remained nearly stationary along the Maharashtra coast for almost three weeks.

Weather experts note that such pauses do not necessarily indicate a weak monsoon season. Instead, rainfall often becomes concentrated into fewer days, resulting in more intense downpours when weather systems become active.

Why Has the Monsoon Stalled?

Meteorologists attribute the slowdown primarily to the delayed activation of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), a crucial weather system that normally shifts northward by mid-June and helps draw moisture-laden winds toward India.

Satellite observations from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) also suggest that El Niño conditions are beginning to develop, which can lead to prolonged dry spells and uneven rainfall distribution across the country.

While thunderstorm activity remains active over eastern India, cloud cover has been relatively weak across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and parts of western India, slowing the monsoon's progress.

Monsoon Progress So Far

After arriving in Kerala on June 4, the southwest monsoon advanced rapidly through 19 states within 14 days. However, it has remained stalled near Bhadrachalam in Telangana for the past week.

As a result, monsoon rains have been delayed in several regions, including Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and parts of central India, where farmers are eagerly awaiting widespread rainfall for sowing activities.

Pre-Monsoon Activity Continues

Even as the monsoon remains stalled, pre-monsoon showers have been reported in several states, including:

• Madhya Pradesh
• Uttar Pradesh
• Bihar
• Rajasthan
• Himachal Pradesh
• Chhattisgarh

Heavy rainfall affected parts of Bihar on Wednesday, while strong winds caused localized damage in Rajasthan, including uprooted trees and collapsed structures in Jaipur and Udaipur.

Heatwave Conditions Persist

The delayed monsoon has allowed heatwave conditions to continue across large parts of the country. Temperatures exceeded 40°C in several cities across:

• Uttar Pradesh
• Madhya Pradesh
• Bihar
• Jharkhand
• Odisha
• Telangana
• Andhra Pradesh
• Maharashtra

The highest temperature recorded in the country was 45°C in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

Rainfall Forecast

June 19

• Rain likely over Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal and Sikkim.
• Heavy rainfall expected in parts of Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karnataka.
• Thunderstorms and gusty winds likely in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

June 20

• Heavy rain expected in Sikkim, North Bengal, Assam and Meghalaya.
• Thunderstorms with strong winds likely in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
• Rainfall activity may continue in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

When Will the Monsoon Advance Again?

According to IMD, the current pause is linked to upper-atmospheric jet stream patterns, which are influencing the movement of monsoon clouds. Once these fast-moving winds weaken, monsoon currents are expected to strengthen and advance into Maharashtra, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and adjoining regions.

Weather experts expect the next significant phase of monsoon advancement to begin by the third week of June, bringing relief from intense heat and improving conditions for agriculture across much of India.

The southwest monsoon may make its entry into parts of Madhya Pradesh on June 18–19, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicated on Tuesday, as pre-monsoon activity brings thunderstorms and heavy rain to over 30 districts.

IMD data show the state is 29% below average for June so far, with just 22.7 mm of rain recorded against the normal 31.9 mm up to June 15. Officials said 35 of the state’s 55 districts — including Indore, Jabalpur, Ujjain, and Ratlam — have received below-normal rainfall in the month.

“The southwest monsoon is likely to advance into parts of Madhya Pradesh between June 18 and 19,” an IMD bulletin said, adding that pre-monsoon systems may trigger thunderstorms, gusty winds and heavy showers across more than 30 districts on Tuesday. Areas under alert include Bhopal, Gwalior, Shivpuri, Morena, Bhind, Datia, Guna, Vidisha, Sehore, Khandwa, Burhanpur, Harda, Betul, Narmadapuram, Sagar, Chhindwara, Balaghat, Mandla, Dindori and several others.

Monday saw a fresh spell of rain in parts of the state, with Bhopal, Raisen and Sehore recording heavy showers. Bhopal and Sagar recorded over half an inch of rainfall, and thunderstorms helped bring down daytime temperatures in some pockets.

Despite the recent activity, the cumulative shortfall is clear: districts in the Jabalpur and Indore divisions — historically significant for early monsoon inflow — remain notably behind. The IMD said the current rainfall has largely been pre-monsoon in character and the situation should improve once the main monsoon arrives.

Temperature trends remain mixed. Five major urban centres recorded high daytime readings on Tuesday: Bhopal 34.5°C, Indore 37.1°C, Ujjain 38°C, Jabalpur 38.7°C and Gwalior 39.2°C. Khajuraho logged the state’s highest maximum at 42.6°C, while Naogaon saw 42°C. Several stations including Datia, Damoh and Satna crossed 40°C. Pachmarhi was relatively cool with a maximum of 34.2°C.

IMD forecasters flagged that several districts — Indore, Ujjain, Shajapur, Neemuch, Mandsaur, Ratlam, Khargone and parts of western Madhya Pradesh — could see strong sunshine and continuing heat after brief rainy spells, keeping the heat‑stress risk alive for vulnerable groups.

How the monsoon approaches matters. Meteorologists say the monsoon is likely to push into the state via the southeast, advancing through Balaghat, Chhindwara and Pandhurna before fanning out. If the expected 18–19 June advance happens, it should narrow the rainfall deficit and boost inflow to districts that are currently lagging.

Local climatology underscores regional differences: Jabalpur typically sees an earlier and stronger monsoon onset compared with western districts, and historical records show wide variability. For instance, Indore’s June rainfall records include extremes — 17 inches in 1980, while June day temperatures have once touched 45.8°C (3 June 1991). Gwalior has seen maximums near 47.8°C in extreme years.

Officials urged residents to stay alert to short‑term weather warnings, particularly where thunderstorms and gusty winds are forecast. Agriculture and water‑management officials said they will monitor the monsoon’s arrival closely, since early rains are critical for sowing in rain‑fed areas and for replenishing reservoirs that feed irrigation schemes.

The IMD will issue updated bulletins as the situation evolves. For now, Tuesday’s advisory covers more than 30 districts with potential thunderstorm and heavy‑rain warnings; exact intensity and timing will depend on the monsoon’s progress from the southeast corridor.

The southwest monsoon, which made an early onset over Kerala on June 4, has remained virtually stuck for the past seven days, hovering over parts of Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and West Bengal. Meteorologists say conditions are turning favourable for a fresh advance, with the system likely to cover remaining areas of Maharashtra, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh in the coming days.

While the main monsoon current has been sluggish, pre-monsoon rains and thunderstorms have lashed large parts of the country, bringing both relief from the heat and tragic losses in several states. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall alert for as many as 22 states and Union Territories.

 Three Dead in UP Weather Incidents

In Uttar Pradesh, strong winds and rain claimed three lives in separate incidents on Thursday. In Chitrakoot, the roof of a newly built ₹4.5 crore auditorium was blown away by powerful gusts. Authorities reported damage to trees, tin sheds and boundary walls in several districts including Etawah, Sitapur and Firozabad.

Local officials said rescue and relief teams have been deployed in the affected areas. Power supply was also disrupted in many places due to fallen trees and poles.

 Child Killed in Punjab Dust Storm

Punjab too witnessed tragedy when a nine-year-old child died in Mansa after an iron gate collapsed on him during a strong dust storm. Several other parts of the state reported minor injuries and property damage from the squall.

In Rajasthan, strong winds affected normal life while two flights were diverted from Delhi due to poor visibility and adverse weather. Markets in smaller towns wore a deserted look as people stayed indoors during the evening hours.

 Heavy Rain Alert Across 22 States

According to the IMD, a yellow alert for rainfall has been sounded across almost the entire country, with Gujarat remaining the only exception. States including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, and those in the northeast are expected to receive widespread showers in the next two days.

Heavy rainfall is likely in coastal districts of Kerala and Karnataka. Thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds reaching 50-70 kmph are forecast over Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh on June 12 and 13. Hailstorms may also occur in parts of western UP, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir.

 Lingering Heat Despite Rains

Despite the monsoon-related activity, day temperatures continued to soar above 40°C in eight states. Bathinda in Punjab recorded the highest temperature in the country at 46.2°C on Thursday. Other high readings included 45.9°C in Sri Ganganagar, 45.5°C in Brahmapuri and 45.4°C in Banda.

Meteorologists noted that such contrast between heavy local rains and extreme heat in neighbouring areas is not uncommon during the transition phase of the monsoon.

 Monsoon Progress So Far

The southwest monsoon entered the country through Kerala and quickly advanced into parts of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra and the northeast by June 6. However, its further northward push has been stalled over Chennai, Harnai in Maharashtra and Siliguri in West Bengal for nearly a week.

Sources familiar with the weather patterns said favourable atmospheric conditions are building up and the monsoon is expected to gain momentum soon. Once it advances, it is likely to cover most of central and northern India in the coming weeks.

 Ground Reality and Public Impact

In Bihar, continuous rain has left many low-lying areas waterlogged, affecting daily commuters and farmers preparing for the kharif season. In Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, farmers welcomed the showers but also worried about damage to standing crops from strong winds and hail.

Delhi and surrounding areas saw intermittent rain and thunderstorms, bringing some respite from the scorching heat but also causing traffic snarls during the evening peak hours.

Officials have advised people to avoid venturing out during thunderstorms and to stay away from open fields and water bodies. Farmers have been asked to secure their livestock and newly transplanted paddy.

 Outlook for Next Few Days

The IMD has forecast continued thunderstorm activity over large parts of north and central India on June 12 and 13. Heavy spells are expected in Bihar, Jharkhand and parts of Odisha. Isolated hailstorms may hit Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha region.

As the monsoon finally gathers pace, experts are watching closely to see whether the stalled system can make up for the lost time. Timely and well-distributed rainfall is crucial for agriculture across the rain-fed regions of the country.

For now, the focus remains on managing the immediate impact of pre-monsoon fury while preparing for the full arrival of the seasonal rains.

The inside of the nose contains tiny blood vessels that are close to the surface. During summer, hot and dry air can cause the nasal lining to lose moisture and become irritated. This makes the blood vessels more fragile and prone to breaking, resulting in bleeding.

Dehydration Can Make Things Worse

Not drinking enough water is another common reason behind summer nosebleeds. Dehydration dries out the mucous membranes, reducing their ability to protect the nasal passages. Experts say spending long hours in air-conditioned rooms can also contribute to dryness.

Frequent Nose Picking and Allergies

Seasonal allergies, colds and repeated nose blowing may irritate the nasal tissues. Children are especially prone to nosebleeds because they may rub or pick their noses more often, increasing the risk of injury to the sensitive blood vessels.

Who Is More Likely to Experience Nosebleeds?

People living in very hot climates, children, older adults and those with allergies or sinus problems may be more susceptible. Individuals taking blood-thinning medications or those with high blood pressure should consult a doctor if nosebleeds occur frequently.

How to Prevent Summer Nosebleeds

Doctors recommend staying well hydrated and drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Using saline nasal sprays or a humidifier can help keep the nasal passages moist. Avoid excessive nose blowing and try not to pick or scratch inside the nose.

Wearing a hat and limiting exposure to extreme heat may also help reduce the risk of dryness and irritation.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Occasional nosebleeds are usually harmless and stop within a few minutes. However, medical attention is recommended if the bleeding lasts longer than 20 minutes, occurs repeatedly, follows an injury or is accompanied by dizziness or weakness.

With proper hydration and simple preventive measures, most summer-related nosebleeds can be managed effectively, allowing you to enjoy the season without unnecessary discomfort.