Chandigarh, May 16 -- Mercury's upward climb in the city continues as the maximum temperature jumped from 40.5degC on Wednesday to 41.7degC on Thursday, leaving residents sweating. However, the sizzling weather took a turn by night, with 4.8 mm rain and gusty winds going up to 50 km/h causing the temperature to plunge to 21degC by 11.30 pm. The cool relief, though, will not last long, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast searing heat over the weekend, with temperatures likely to go up to 44degC. Earlier on Thursday, at 41.7degC, the maximum temperature was an uncomfortable 4.2 degrees above normal and the highest so far this summer. The minimum temperature also rose from 24.7degC on Wednesday to 25.3degC on Thursday, 1.5 degree above normal. Issuing an advisory, the Mohali health department has urged residents to avoid sun exposure and stay indoors as much as possible in view of the ongoing scorching weather, which could pose moderate to severe health risks, especially for vulnerable groups. Civil surgeon Dr Sangeeta Jain said the elderly and children were particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses and necessary preventive measures must be taken. "Those most at risk include pregnant women, newborns, labourers, farmers or anyone working outdoors, the homeless, roadside dwellers, individuals exposed to harsh weather, and people suffering from mental or physical illnesses-especially those with heart disease, high blood pressure or obesity. These groups are more likely to suffer from dehydration, which can lead to heatstroke," said Dr Jain and district epidemiologist Dr Anamika Soni in a joint statement. They explained that heat can also cause dizziness, headaches, vomiting, red and dry skin, muscle weakness, loss of consciousness, and aggravation of chronic health conditions....