Will it get hotter in Delhi-NCR before the rains? What travellers need to know

Delhi-NCR may have escaped the worst of the heatwave so far this June, but the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) latest weather bulletin suggests that travellers across large parts of the country still need to prepare for two very different weather stories unfolding simultaneously: rising temperatures in the north and central regions, and an increasingly active southwest monsoon spreading deeper into the country.As monsoon clouds inch closer to Delhi-NCR, much of India finds itself caught between lingering heat and advancing rain systems. The latest All India Weather Summary and Forecast Bulletin issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on June 15 paints a picture of contrasting weather patterns that could significantly affect travel plans in the coming days.For travellers in and around Delhi-NCR, the immediate concern remains the rising temperatures.

While the national capital is not under a heatwave warning, the IMD has forecast a gradual increase in maximum temperatures across Northwest India by 4°C to 6°C until June 18. Delhi, Haryana, Punjab and parts of Uttar Pradesh are also expected to witness isolated thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph on June 15.

Such conditions can lead to sudden disruptions in outdoor activities, delayed flights and traffic snarls, especially during evening hours.

The more severe heat concerns lie further south. Heatwave conditions are very likely in isolated pockets of Marathwada between June 15 and 17 and over Vidarbha during June 15 and 16. These regions have already been experiencing intense summer conditions, and travellers planning road trips, heritage visits or wildlife excursions in Maharashtra's interior districts would be wise to reconsider afternoon itineraries.

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, particularly for senior citizens, children and those engaging in outdoor activities.The IMD has also warned of hot and humid weather over Konkan and Goa and Madhya Maharashtra from June 15 to 17, with warm night conditions likely in Konkan and Goa on June 15 and 16. For tourists heading to Goa's beaches or exploring the Konkan coast, this means that even nighttime temperatures may offer little relief.

Staying hydrated, scheduling sightseeing during cooler parts of the day and avoiding strenuous activities during peak afternoon hours could make travel considerably safer and more comfortable.Even as parts of India continue to battle heat, the southwest monsoon is steadily marching forward. According to the IMD, conditions remain favourable for the monsoon to advance further into more parts of Maharashtra, the remaining parts of Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, additional areas of Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar and parts of south Chhattisgarh over the next four to five days.For travellers, the progress of the monsoon brings both opportunities and challenges.The northeast, one of India's most spectacular summer travel regions, is likely to witness widespread rainfall over Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura through June 20. Heavy rainfall is expected over Arunachal Pradesh and Assam-Meghalaya, while isolated very heavy rainfall has been forecast on several days during the week.

Popular destinations such as Shillong, Cherrapunji and parts of Arunachal Pradesh could experience reduced visibility, waterlogging and temporary disruptions to road connectivity.Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim also remain under close watch. Heavy rainfall is likely on June 15 and June 20, with very heavy rainfall forecast between June 16 and June 19. Travellers planning trips to Darjeeling, Kalimpong or Sikkim should monitor local advisories closely, as intense rain can trigger landslides, road blockages and longer travel times in hilly terrain.Eastern India is also expected to become increasingly wet. Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha are likely to receive isolated to scattered rainfall through the forecast period. Bihar, in particular, is expected to witness heavy rainfall on June 16 along with thundersquall activity on multiple days. While these showers may bring relief from oppressive heat, they could also affect rail schedules and road travel.Southern India appears set for a classic early monsoon phase.

Kerala and Coastal Karnataka are likely to experience widespread rainfall throughout the week, while Telangana's rainfall activity is expected to intensify from June 18 onwards, accompanied by isolated heavy rainfall. South Interior Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are also likely to receive significant showers.For travellers, this could mean lush green landscapes, dramatic waterfalls and fewer crowds at certain destinations.

However, it also calls for flexibility. Trekking routes may become slippery, beach conditions can turn rough, and intercity journeys may take longer than expected.The IMD has also issued marine advisories that could affect coastal tourism. Fishermen have been advised against venturing into several parts of the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea between June 15 and June 19 due to squally weather and strong winds. Coastal visitors planning boating excursions or water activities should check with local authorities before heading out.The weather department has highlighted the broader impacts associated with these systems, including localized flooding, waterlogging in urban areas, reduced visibility during heavy rain, traffic congestion and the possibility of landslides in vulnerable regions.