India, June 15 -- Partly clouded skies and a smattering of rain across this week is not expected to keep the maximum temperature from rising, which is forecast to reach 44degC by the weekend, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

According to the forecast, a spell of very light to light rain, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds, is expected on Monday afternoon or evening, as well as on Saturday. Thunderstorms are also forecast for Tuesday afternoon, with partially cloudy skies expected to remain most of the week.

However, the maximum temperature is likely to resume increasing from Monday and reaching 42-44degC on Saturday. The IMD's normal maximum temperature for June 15-19 (Monday- Friday) is 38.8degC and fo...