Hottest July 12 in last five years, rain expected from Monday

New Delhi, July 12 (IANS) It was a hot, sunny and sultry Saturday Delhi, with maximum temperature seven notches above the season's average at 42.3 degree Celsius, making it the hottest July 12 in last five years. Some rain is however likely Sunday and then five days continuous rainfall from Monday.

"This July 12 is the hottest day in the last five years. Generally July 12 every year, temperature remains below 40 degrees. July 3, 2012 was the hottest day of July in last five years when the maximum temperature reached 43.2 degrees Celsius," said an official of the India Meteorological Department.

However, the city will have continuous rainfall for four-five days from Monday, while a short spell of rain is likely to be expected Sunday, he said.

"The sky will be partly cloudy Sunday and thunderstorms may occur in some parts of the city. The maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to hover around 41 and 30 degrees Celsius," said the IMD official.

Saturday's minimum temperature recorded at 30.1 degrees Celsius, three notches above the season's average.

Friday's minimum temperature settled three notches above the season's average at 30.1 degrees Celsius while the maximum temperature was recorded seven notches above the season's average at 42 degrees Celsius.