India, May 23 -- India's weather map on May 23 presents two sharply different realities. Northern and central states are battling punishing heatwave conditions, while southern and northeastern regions are witnessing thunderstorms and heavy rainfall activity. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued multiple alerts as temperatures in parts of Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh continue to climb above 45degC while at the same time, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu are preparing for intense pre-monsoon showers.

Meteorologists say this unusual split highlights the growing intensity of seasonal weather extremes across the country while heat retention in urban regions, delayed moisture movement and changing wind cir...