New Delhi, May 18 -- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning across several parts of the country, cautioning that maximum temperatures could rise up to 45 degrees Celsius in the coming days, with dry and hot conditions likely to persist for at least a week.

Speaking to ANI on Monday, IMD scientist Akhilesh Shrivastav said, "Today, the regions of Northwest India, along with Central India and the nearby areas, are expected to experience heatwave conditions. These conditions are likely to persist over the coming week--that is, for the next 7 days."

He further detailed the state-wise alert zones, saying, "Heatwave warnings have been issued for Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, as well...