Weathermen forecast cloudy sky

CHANDIGARH, May 25: Though the oppressive heat today belied hopes of any relief, there is a good news – the meteorological office has this evening forecast a partly cloudy sky with possibility of thundry developments tomorrow.

The mercury touched 43.4 degrees today, about four degrees above normal, making it one of the hottest days this season has seen during the past four years. At 38 degrees celcius, the maximum temperature for the corresponding day last year was perhaps more bearable. Though the temperature is uncomfortably hot, it is still lower than other cities in the neighbouring states.

Hisar, the hottest place in this region, recorded 47.8 degrees, while both, Patiala and Ludhiana recorded 45.6 degrees. The mercury in nearby Ambala touched 43.7 degrees. Even the summer resort of Shimla is in the grip of heat wave with mercury rising six degrees above normal.