PRAYAGRAJ, May 26 -- Prayagraj has been reeling under a severe heatwave, with temperatures consistently soaring above 45degC for more than a week. Weather experts have cautioned that the conditions could worsen further in the coming days before a temporary respite is expected towards the end of May. Weather expert and former head of the geography department at Allahabad University, Prof BN Mishra, said that the last week of May and the onset of June usually witness cyclonic wind activity triggered by atmospheric changes over the Ganga plains. "Excessive heating across the plains leads to the formation of low-pressure areas, which subsequently draw in high-pressure winds. This process often creates cyclonic conditions," Prof Mishra explained. He added that around May 27-28, several regions-including Delhi, Chandigarh, Punjab, Haryana, West Uttar Pradesh and the adjoining Himalayan foothills-are likely to witness rain, thunderstorms and hailstorms. Snowfall is also expected in higher-altitude areas. "In the plains, strong winds accompanied by scattered to heavy rainfall are likely to occur. However, after temperatures dip by around 3 to 4 degrees, the heatwave conditions may return shortly thereafter. Such weather fluctuations are commonly referred to as pre-monsoon turbulence," he noted. On the monsoon front, he indicated that its arrival in Kerala is expected around May 26-27, nearly four days ahead of the normal onset date of June 1. The monsoon has already reached the Andaman and Nicobar Islands about 10 days earlier than usual. "If the current progression continues, the monsoon is likely to reach the northern plains, including Uttar Pradesh, between June 15 and 17, 2026," he informed. Meanwhile, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Prayagraj, has issued an advisory urging residents to take precautions amid the ongoing heatwave. Residents have been advised to avoid stepping outdoors between 12 noon and 4 pm unless absolutely necessary. The advisory also stresses the importance of staying hydrated by consuming water, ORS, lemon water, and other fluids. People are encouraged to wear light-coloured, loose-fitting cotton clothes and cover their heads when exposed to the sun. Special care has been recommended for vulnerable groups including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing health conditions. The administration has also urged citizens to ensure adequate shade and water for animals and birds and cautioned against leaving children or animals unattended in parked vehicles. In case of symptoms such as dizziness, high fever, excessive thirst, weakness, or fainting, immediate medical attention should be sought. For emergencies, residents can contact 108 for ambulance services and 112 for other emergency assistance, the advisory stated....