Chandigarh, May 25 -- After dipping below 40degC for the first time in six days on Friday, the maximum temperature climbed past the 40degC mark again over the weekend. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the temperature will rise gradually over the coming days, while rain is likely to return from Thursday.

The maximum temperature rose from 40.6degC on Saturday to 40.9degC, 1degC above normal. It is, however, lower than earlier this week when it had remained above 44degC for two consecutive days. The weatherman stated that the temperature would rise daily and can hit 44degC again before a fresh western disturbance affects the region.

Due to dust storms, the Air Quality Index (AQI) of the city had crossed 100 on Friday...