The weather is set to take a dramatic turn across several parts of India today, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing rain and thunderstorm alerts for 12 states and Union Territories. From Delhi-NCR to Jammu and Kashmir, residents have been advised to stay alert as heavy rain, lightning, gusty winds and even hailstorms may affect many regions over the next few hours.According to the IMD, wind speeds could reach up to 70 kilometres per hour in some areas, increasing the risk of disruptions. While many states are likely to receive much-needed rainfall, authorities have urged people, especially those in hilly regions, to exercise caution.IMD Issues Rain and Thunderstorm Alert for 12 StatesThe weather department has warned that conditions could worsen within the next 15 hours in the following states and regions:BiharMaharashtraHimachal PradeshUttarakhandRajasthanJammu and KashmirHaryanaJharkhandTelanganaOdishaChhattisgarhDelhi-NCRSeveral of these areas may witness thunderstorms, lightning strikes and strong winds along with rainfall.— Indiametdept (@Indiametdept) Delhi-NCR Weather Forecast: Rain Likely After Hot ConditionsDelhi-NCR is expected to experience thunderstorms accompanied by rain today. The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 38°C, while the minimum temperature may settle near 27°C.A day earlier, the capital recorded a maximum temperature of 38.9°C, slightly above the seasonal average. The expected rainfall could provide temporary relief from the prevailing heat.Bihar Continues to Reel Under Heatwave ConditionsMany districts in Bihar, including Patna, remain under the grip of intense heat. Residents have been struggling with high temperatures and uncomfortable weather conditions over the past few days.Weather forecasts suggest that maximum temperatures are unlikely to change significantly over the next two to three days. However, a gradual drop of 2°C to 3°C is expected later in the week, offering some relief from the heatwave.Rajasthan May Witness Rain, Lightning and Gusty WindsParts of Rajasthan are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall during the next 24 hours. Districts including Jhunjhunu and Sri Ganganagar are among the areas expected to receive showers.Meanwhile, Ataru in Baran district could witness more significant rainfall activity. The IMD has also warned of lightning and strong winds during thunderstorms in several locations.Maharashtra Awaits Stronger Monsoon ActivityWeather conditions have become favourable for the southwest monsoon to advance further across Maharashtra. Although the monsoon has already reached South Konkan, its progress had slowed in recent days.Fresh rainfall activity is now expected to pick up pace. Mumbai and nearby areas have also been placed under alert for rain and thunderstorms, raising hopes of relief from humid conditions.Temperatures in Major Indian CitiesRecent temperature readings from major cities highlight the sharp contrast in weather conditions across the country:Delhi: 41°C / 27°CMumbai: 35°C / 30°CChennai: 39°C / 29°CKolkata: 36°C / 28°CLucknow: 42°C / 31°CPatna: 40°C / 31°CRanchi: 33°C / 24°CBhopal: 36°C / 26°CJaipur: 37°C / 27°CShimla: 26°C / 15°CNainital: 27°C / 17°CWest Bengal Under Orange and Red AlertsMonsoon activity has intensified significantly across West Bengal, prompting the IMD to issue both Orange and Red alerts. An Orange Alert has been declared for Purba Bardhaman, Paschim Bardhaman, Birbhum and Murshidabad districts, where heavy rainfall and winds of up to 50 kmph are expected.Meanwhile, Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri have been placed under a Red Alert due to the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall. Residents in several districts, including North and South 24 Parganas, East and West Midnapore, Jhargram, Bankura and Purulia, have been advised to remain vigilant.Tamil Nadu Braces for a Week of Heavy RainTamil Nadu is likely to witness widespread rainfall over the coming week. The weather department has forecast heavy rain in several districts between June 22 and June 28.The districts expected to receive the heaviest rainfall include:NilgirisCoimbatoreDindigulTheniKanyakumariOfficials say intermittent showers could continue across many parts of the state throughout the week, keeping weather conditions favourable for monsoon activity.Weather Outlook for the Coming DaysWith monsoon activity strengthening across several regions, much of India is expected to see a mix of rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds over the coming days. While the rain may bring relief from scorching temperatures in many areas, residents are advised to monitor local weather warnings and take precautions during periods of severe weather.Inputs from agencies