The nine-day Nautapa period has officially started across India and will continue till June 2, bringing some of the hottest weather of the season.

Traditionally linked with intense summer heat, Nautapa begins when the Sun enters the Rohini Nakshatra. During this phase, temperatures are expected to rise sharply across Northwest, Central and East India, with several cities likely to cross 45°C.

Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh may witness severe heatwave conditions along with hot and dry loo winds.

However, pre-monsoon thunderstorms and scattered rain may provide temporary relief over parts of North and East India, including Delhi, Punjab, Bihar and West Bengal. Meanwhile, South India is likely to continue receiving rain activity as conditions become favourable for further monsoon advancement.