<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-protests-chinas-army-to-be-handed-prime-harbour-in-hong-kong-231230">Amid protests, China's Army to be handed prime harbour in Hong Kong</a>

The Chinese military will be handed prime Hong Kong waterfront land on Saturday, even as the city is&nbsp;rocked by anti-Beijing protests&nbsp;and just days before the anniversary of its return to China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-time-hottest-temperature-in-france-recorded-at-443c-weather-service-231244">All-time hottest temperature in France recorded at 44.3C: Weather service</a>

France recorded its all-time hottest temperature of 44.3 degrees Celsius (111.7 degrees Fahrenheit) on Friday as the country and much of Europe basked in an&nbsp;early summer heatwave, state weather forecaster Meteo-France said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-will-target-root-of-terrorism-inside-pakistan-balakot-strikes-not-a-fluke-home-minister-amit-shah-in-lok-sabha-231174">We will target root of terrorism inside Pakistan, Balakot strikes not a fluke: Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha</a>

After PM Modi lashed out at&nbsp;Congress in Parliament, Home minister Amit Shah today hit out at Congress over the Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K) issue in Lok Sabha. "Congress weakened democracy in J&amp;K," India's home minister said, adding, "separatists have hurt democracy".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-talks-with-world-leaders-at-g20-pm-modi-discusses-indo-pacific-terrorism-situation-in-gulf-231173">In talks with world leaders at G20, PM Modi discusses Indo-Pacific, terrorism, situation in Gulf</a>

Even by diplomatic standards,&nbsp;the first day of the G20 Summit&nbsp;was not only hectic but showed how India was a sought after country at the event in Osaka. The two trilaterals - JAI - between Japan, America, India and RIC - between Russia, India, China showed how India was the common factor in the two groupings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europes-heatwave-consistent-with-climate-change-more-to-come-un-231226">Europe's heatwave consistent with climate change, more to come: UN</a>

This year is on track to be among the hottest ever and that would make 2015-2019 the world's hottest five-year period on record, the World Meteorological Organization said on Friday.

Amid protests, China's Army to be handed prime harbour in Hong Kong The Chinese military will be handed prime Hong Kong waterfront land on Saturday, even as the city is rocked by anti-Beijing protests and just days before the anniversary of its return to China.

Amid protests, China's Army to be handed prime harbour in Hong Kong The Chinese military will be handed prime Hong Kong waterfront land on Saturday, even as the city is rocked by anti-Beijing protests and just days before the anniversary of its return to China. All-time hottest temperature in France recorded at 44.3C: Weather service France recorded its all-time hottest temperature of 44.3 degrees Celsius (111.7 degrees Fahrenheit) on Friday as the country and much of Europe basked in an early summer heatwave, state weather forecaster Meteo-France said. We will target root of terrorism inside Pakistan, Balakot strikes not a fluke: Home Minister Amit Shah in Lok Sabha After PM Modi lashed out at Congress in Parliament, Home minister Amit Shah today hit out at Congress over the Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) issue in Lok Sabha. "Congress weakened democracy in J&K," India's home minister said, adding, "separatists have hurt democracy". In talks with world leaders at G20, PM Modi discusses Indo-Pacific, terrorism, situation in Gulf Even by diplomatic standards, the first day of the G20 Summit was not only hectic but showed how India was a sought after country at the event in Osaka. The two trilaterals - JAI - between Japan, America, India and RIC - between Russia, India, China showed how India was the common factor in the two groupings. Europe's heatwave consistent with climate change, more to come: UN This year is on track to be among the hottest ever and that would make 2015-2019 the world's hottest five-year period on record, the World Meteorological Organization said on Friday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Classrooms were deserted in the southern French town of Nimes on Friday as authorities shut primary schools fearing record-breaking highs of 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) as a heat wave gripped the country. Four administrative regions in the south of France have been issued with an unprecedented red weather warning due to the high temperatures leading to 4,000 school closures, the prime minister announced.

French town shuts schools amid fears of 45° Celsius record high

Europe's record-breaking heatwave was forecast to intensify Thursday, with authorities on alert as temperatures threaten to surpass 40 degrees Celsius in some regions.

The stifling heat has prompted traffic restrictions in France, sparked forest fires in Spain and fanned debate in Germany over public nudity as sweltering residents stripped off.

Meteorologists blame a blast of hot air from northern Africa for the heat this week, which has already set new records in Europe for June.

Exceptional for arriving so early in summer, the heatwave will on Thursday and Friday likely send thermometers above 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) in France, Spain and Greece.

In Spain, hundreds of firefighters and soldiers, backed by water-dropping aircraft, battled on Wednesday to put out a wind-fuelled forest fire that erupted in Torre del Espanol in the northeastern region of Catalonia.

The worst is expected Friday when 33 of the 50 Spanish provinces face extreme temperatures, which could reach 44 degrees in Girona.

"Hell is coming," one Spanish TV weather presenter tweeted Wednesday.

In France, temperatures "unprecedented" for their timing and intensity -- since 1947 when detailed surveys started -- were expected to reach at least 39 degrees over two-thirds of the country, said weather service Meteo-France.

Health official Jerome Saloman said the impact of the extreme heat was starting to be felt in France, with an increase in weather-related calls to emergency medical services.&nbsp;

Some schools are expected to close Thursday and Friday, while several cities -- including Paris and Lyon -- restricted traffic to limit a build-up of air pollution.&nbsp;

French authorities were taking no chances after the August 2003 heatwave was blamed for 15,000 deaths in the country, with television and radio broadcasts issuing warnings.

In Greece, where around 100 people &nbsp;died in last year's deadly fires at the Mati coastal resort, hospitals and officials were on red alert with temperatures of around 45 degrees nationwide.&nbsp;

- Vintage wine year -

Scientists warn that global warming linked to human fossil fuel use could make such scorchers more frequent.

"Global temperatures are increasing due to climate change," said Len Shaffrey, professor of climate science at the University of Reading.

"The global rise in temperatures means the probability that an extreme heatwave will occur is also increasing."

But French winemakers said the hot weather was more than welcome as it could produce a superior vintage.

"Two of three days of heatwave in Bordeaux at this time, it's magic!" Philippe Bardet, head of the Bordeaux Wine Council, told AFP.&nbsp;

Temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius would help burn off any of the mildew caused by residual damp, which is "very, very good for quality", Bardet said.&nbsp;

The 70-year-old record for the highest temperature recorded for June was beaten in Germany as 38.6 degrees Celsius was recorded in Brandenburg, the German Weather Service (DWD) confirmed Wednesday.

Meanwhile, police in Brandenburg cautioned a naked man for driving his moped wearing only his helmet and sandals.

And in Munich, security guards ordered a group of women sunbathing topless on the banks of the river Isar to cover up.

The move backfired, according to the Munich daily Sueddeutsche Zeitung, which quoted another sunbather as saying that she and others took their tops off "out of solidarity".

It said an urgent motion was introduced in a city council meeting Wednesday to allow topless bathing.

Scores of people have drowned in Poland and Lithuania as they tried to cool off in lakes and rivers, authorities said.

The Polish weather institute IMGW said the country's highest ever June temperature was recorded on Wednesday in the southwest: 38.2 degrees Celsius.

The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute also recorded the country's highest June temperature: 38.9 degrees Celsius in the northern town of Doksany.

In Belgium, vastly different temperatures were expected with 19 degrees Celsius on the north coast and 33 degrees in the south, according to broadcaster RTBF.

Europe's record-breaking heatwave was forecast to intensify Thursday, with authorities on alert as temperatures threaten to surpass 40 degrees Celsius in some regions.

Europe's record-breaking heatwave was forecast to intensify Thursday, with authorities on alert as temperatures threaten to surpass 40 degrees Celsius in some regions. The stifling heat has prompted traffic restrictions in France, sparked forest fires in Spain and fanned debate in Germany over public nudity as sweltering residents stripped off. Meteorologists blame a blast of hot air from northern Africa for the heat this week, which has already set new records in Europe for June. Exceptional for arriving so early in summer, the heatwave will on Thursday and Friday likely send thermometers above 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) in France, Spain and Greece. In Spain, hundreds of firefighters and soldiers, backed by water-dropping aircraft, battled on Wednesday to put out a wind-fuelled forest fire that erupted in Torre del Espanol in the northeastern region of Catalonia. The worst is expected Friday when 33 of the 50 Spanish provinces face extreme temperatures, which could reach 44 degrees in Girona. "Hell is coming," one Spanish TV weather presenter tweeted Wednesday. In France, temperatures "unprecedented" for their timing and intensity -- since 1947 when detailed surveys started -- were expected to reach at least 39 degrees over two-thirds of the country, said weather service Meteo-France. Health official Jerome Saloman said the impact of the extreme heat was starting to be felt in France, with an increase in weather-related calls to emergency medical services. Some schools are expected to close Thursday and Friday, while several cities -- including Paris and Lyon -- restricted traffic to limit a build-up of air pollution. French authorities were taking no chances after the August 2003 heatwave was blamed for 15,000 deaths in the country, with television and radio broadcasts issuing warnings. In Greece, where around 100 people died in last year's deadly fires at the Mati coastal resort, hospitals and officials were on red alert with temperatures of around 45 degrees nationwide. - Vintage wine year - Scientists warn that global warming linked to human fossil fuel use could make such scorchers more frequent. "Global temperatures are increasing due to climate change," said Len Shaffrey, professor of climate science at the University of Reading. "The global rise in temperatures means the probability that an extreme heatwave will occur is also increasing." But French winemakers said the hot weather was more than welcome as it could produce a superior vintage. "Two of three days of heatwave in Bordeaux at this time, it's magic!" Philippe Bardet, head of the Bordeaux Wine Council, told AFP. Temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius would help burn off any of the mildew caused by residual damp, which is "very, very good for quality", Bardet said. The 70-year-old record for the highest temperature recorded for June was beaten in Germany as 38.6 degrees Celsius was recorded in Brandenburg, the German Weather Service (DWD) confirmed Wednesday. Meanwhile, police in Brandenburg cautioned a naked man for driving his moped wearing only his helmet and sandals. And in Munich, security guards ordered a group of women sunbathing topless on the banks of the river Isar to cover up. The move backfired, according to the Munich daily Sueddeutsche Zeitung, which quoted another sunbather as saying that she and others took their tops off "out of solidarity". It said an urgent motion was introduced in a city council meeting Wednesday to allow topless bathing. Scores of people have drowned in Poland and Lithuania as they tried to cool off in lakes and rivers, authorities said. The Polish weather institute IMGW said the country's highest ever June temperature was recorded on Wednesday in the southwest: 38.2 degrees Celsius. The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute also recorded the country's highest June temperature: 38.9 degrees Celsius in the northern town of Doksany. In Belgium, vastly different temperatures were expected with 19 degrees Celsius on the north coast and 33 degrees in the south, according to broadcaster RTBF.

Europeans on alert as heatwave intensifies

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Thursday issued elaborate instructions to deal with the intense heat wave conditions in the state which has claimed more than 100 lives so far.

According to the control room set up by the state's disaster management department, 101 people have died due to heat stroke and the casualties have been spread across three districts of Aurangabad, Gaya and Nawada.

At 58, Aurangabad has reported the highest number of casualties, followed by Gaya (39) and Nawada (14), the control room said.

After recording a maximum temperature of 40.4 degrees, Gaya received light rainfall bringing respite to the people. The weather department has forecast "overcast sky and thundershowers" for Friday.

However, residents of the state capital, which simmered at 40.2 degrees, are unlikely to get any relief as heat wave is likely to persist over the next 24 hours, the Met office said.

At the meeting held at ANMCH hospital in Gaya, the chief minister instructed the officials to ensure that those admitted upon suffering a heat stroke were provided with the best possible treatment and awareness was spread for prevention.

He also directed administrative officials of Gaya, Nawada and Aurangabad, who were present at the meeting, to ensure that ex gratia was paid at the earliest to the family members of those who have lost their lives.

A presentation was also made before Kumar, apprising him of the health care arrangements in the three districts affected by intense heat wave.

Deliberations were also held on prevention of encephalitis, of which the state has witnessed a massive outbreak, resulting in deaths of more than 130 children.&nbsp;

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Thursday issued elaborate instructions to deal with the intense heat wave conditions in the state which has claimed more than 100 lives so far.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Thursday issued elaborate instructions to deal with the intense heat wave conditions in the state which has claimed more than 100 lives so far. According to the control room set up by the state's disaster management department, 101 people have died due to heat stroke and the casualties have been spread across three districts of Aurangabad, Gaya and Nawada. At 58, Aurangabad has reported the highest number of casualties, followed by Gaya (39) and Nawada (14), the control room said. After recording a maximum temperature of 40.4 degrees, Gaya received light rainfall bringing respite to the people. The weather department has forecast "overcast sky and thundershowers" for Friday. However, residents of the state capital, which simmered at 40.2 degrees, are unlikely to get any relief as heat wave is likely to persist over the next 24 hours, the Met office said. At the meeting held at ANMCH hospital in Gaya, the chief minister instructed the officials to ensure that those admitted upon suffering a heat stroke were provided with the best possible treatment and awareness was spread for prevention. He also directed administrative officials of Gaya, Nawada and Aurangabad, who were present at the meeting, to ensure that ex gratia was paid at the earliest to the family members of those who have lost their lives. A presentation was also made before Kumar, apprising him of the health care arrangements in the three districts affected by intense heat wave. Deliberations were also held on prevention of encephalitis, of which the state has witnessed a massive outbreak, resulting in deaths of more than 130 children.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar meets officials as heat wave claims over 100 lives

It was a partly cloudy Wednesday morning in the national capital, with the minimum temperature settling at 31 degrees Celsius, three notches above the season's average.

Delhiites may get some <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ncr-may-get-respite-from-scorching-heat-in-the-coming-days-imd-226167">respite from the oppressive heat </a>as gusty winds and thunderstorm are likely in the later half of the day, a Meteorological Department official said.

The maximum temperature would be around 42 degrees Celsius, he said.

Relative humidity was 47 per cent at 8.30 am, the official added.

On Tuesday, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-respite-from-heat-as-delhi-sizzles-at-46-degree-celsius-226143">maximum temperature in the city </a>was 44.5 degrees Celsius, five degrees above the season's average.&nbsp;

It was a partly cloudy Wednesday morning in the national capital, with the minimum temperature settling at 31 degrees Celsius, three notches above the season's average.

It was a partly cloudy Wednesday morning in the national capital, with the minimum temperature settling at 31 degrees Celsius, three notches above the season's average. Delhiites may get some respite from the oppressive heat as gusty winds and thunderstorm are likely in the later half of the day, a Meteorological Department official said. The maximum temperature would be around 42 degrees Celsius, he said. Relative humidity was 47 per cent at 8.30 am, the official added. On Tuesday, the maximum temperature in the city was 44.5 degrees Celsius, five degrees above the season's average.

Partly cloudy morning in Delhi, respite from heat likely later in the day

Several parts of the country continued to reel under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-records-all-time-high-of-48-degree-celsius-226013">sweltering heat</a> Tuesday with mercury crossing the 45-degree mark, even as four elderly pilgrims travelling on a train from Agra to Coimbatore died due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-why-the-heat-wave-should-worry-us-158593">extreme heat</a>.

The pilgrims, hailing from Tamil Nadu, were travelling in non-AC coaches of Kerala Express. They complained of uneasiness and by the time, the train reached Jhansi, three of them died. One of the pilgrims died in a hospital, officials said.&nbsp;

Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh has been experiencing severe heat wave in recent weeks. It recorded a high of 48 degrees Celsius Tuesday.&nbsp;The maximum temperature hovered close to 45 degrees Celsius at most places in Punjab and Haryana.&nbsp;

Hisar in Haryana and Patiala in Punjab sizzled at 45.5 degrees Celsius, a MeT official said.&nbsp;

Intense heat wave conditions also swept Bhiwani at 45.3 degrees Celsius, while Karnal and Narnaul recorded above normal temperature of 44 degrees Celsius each.

Common capital Chandigarh recorded a high of 43.9 degrees Celsius, up by five notches against normal.

In the national capital, Safdarjung observatory, reading of which is considered official for the city, recorded a high of 44.5 degrees Celsius, five notches above the season's average.&nbsp;

The weatherman, however, has forecast that the mercury will see a fall in the city.&nbsp;

Over the next few days, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ncr-may-get-respite-from-scorching-heat-in-the-coming-days-imd-226167">Delhi may experience thunderstorm or dust storm</a> leading to slight rain, said a MeT department official.

The official said the maximum temperature is likely to be between 41 to 42 degrees Celsius on June 12 and 13; 43 degrees Celsius between June 14-16; and 39 degrees Celsius on June 17 in the city.&nbsp;

The maximum temperature in most parts of Rajasthan remained near and above 45 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

Though isolated places in east Rajasthan recorded light rainfall and lightening, whereas the western parts of the state witnessed heat wave conditions. 
Churu remained the hottest place in the desert state at 47.3 degrees Celsius followed by 46.2 degrees in Sriganganagar, 45.9 degrees in Kota and 45.1 degrees Celsius in Bikaner. Barmer and Jaisalmer also recorded maximum temperatures above 44 degrees Celsius.

Dry weather prevailed in most parts of Uttar Pradesh with state capital Lucknow recording a maximum temperature of 42.1 degrees Celsius, three degrees above normal.&nbsp;

According to the meteorological department, rain or thunderstorm is very likely at isolated places in the state. It also warned that severe heatwave conditions are likely to prevail at isolated places in the state.&nbsp;

Jhansi was the hottest place in the state where the mercury soared to 48 degrees Celsius, seven degrees above the normal mark. Allahabad witnessed a high of 46 degree Celsius.&nbsp;

The temperature soared above 40 degrees Celsius in at least 13 places in Odisha.&nbsp;

While the entire western region sizzled under boiling heat, coastal and interior areas of the state also encountered unbearable weather conditions due to rising temperature coupled with high level of relative humidity.

Sambalpur in western Odisha turned out to be the hottest place in the state, recording 45 degrees Celsius followed by 44.4 degrees in neighbouring Hirakud and 44.2 degrees in Jharsuguda, the Meteorological Centre here said. &nbsp; &nbsp;The state capital Bhubaneswar recorded a maximum temperature of 40.3 degrees Celsius, up from 37.8 degrees Celsius measured on Monday, while relative humidity in the city stood at 87 per cent, it said.

The MeT has forecast heat wave conditions to prevail in many parts of the state for at least next three days.&nbsp;

People of Himachal Pradesh, however, got some respite from the scorching heat as light rains lashed isolated parts of the state.&nbsp;

Shimla and Kufri were lashed by 8 mm rains each followed by Bhuntar 3 mm, Manali 2 mm, Chamba and Baghi 1 mm each and Kangra recorded 0.1 mm rain.

Una was the hottest place at 44.8 degrees Celsius.

There were reports of mild snowfall on high peaks of Lahaul and Spiti.&nbsp;Rain is also likely to occur in several parts of the state on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The Met Centre has issued yellow weather warning of thunderstorm accompanied with gusty winds for plains, low and mid hills of the state on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Several parts of the country continued to reel under sweltering heat Tuesday with mercury crossing the 45-degree mark, even as four elderly pilgrims travelling on a train from Agra to Coimbatore died due to extreme heat.

Several parts of the country continued to reel under sweltering heat Tuesday with mercury crossing the 45-degree mark, even as four elderly pilgrims travelling on a train from Agra to Coimbatore died due to extreme heat. The pilgrims, hailing from Tamil Nadu, were travelling in non-AC coaches of Kerala Express. They complained of uneasiness and by the time, the train reached Jhansi, three of them died. One of the pilgrims died in a hospital, officials said. Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh has been experiencing severe heat wave in recent weeks. It recorded a high of 48 degrees Celsius Tuesday. The maximum temperature hovered close to 45 degrees Celsius at most places in Punjab and Haryana. Hisar in Haryana and Patiala in Punjab sizzled at 45.5 degrees Celsius, a MeT official said. Intense heat wave conditions also swept Bhiwani at 45.3 degrees Celsius, while Karnal and Narnaul recorded above normal temperature of 44 degrees Celsius each. Common capital Chandigarh recorded a high of 43.9 degrees Celsius, up by five notches against normal. In the national capital, Safdarjung observatory, reading of which is considered official for the city, recorded a high of 44.5 degrees Celsius, five notches above the season's average. The weatherman, however, has forecast that the mercury will see a fall in the city. Over the next few days, Delhi may experience thunderstorm or dust storm leading to slight rain, said a MeT department official. The official said the maximum temperature is likely to be between 41 to 42 degrees Celsius on June 12 and 13; 43 degrees Celsius between June 14-16; and 39 degrees Celsius on June 17 in the city. The maximum temperature in most parts of Rajasthan remained near and above 45 degrees Celsius. Though isolated places in east Rajasthan recorded light rainfall and lightening, whereas the western parts of the state witnessed heat wave conditions. Churu remained the hottest place in the desert state at 47.3 degrees Celsius followed by 46.2 degrees in Sriganganagar, 45.9 degrees in Kota and 45.1 degrees Celsius in Bikaner. Barmer and Jaisalmer also recorded maximum temperatures above 44 degrees Celsius. Dry weather prevailed in most parts of Uttar Pradesh with state capital Lucknow recording a maximum temperature of 42.1 degrees Celsius, three degrees above normal. According to the meteorological department, rain or thunderstorm is very likely at isolated places in the state. It also warned that severe heatwave conditions are likely to prevail at isolated places in the state. Jhansi was the hottest place in the state where the mercury soared to 48 degrees Celsius, seven degrees above the normal mark. Allahabad witnessed a high of 46 degree Celsius. The temperature soared above 40 degrees Celsius in at least 13 places in Odisha. While the entire western region sizzled under boiling heat, coastal and interior areas of the state also encountered unbearable weather conditions due to rising temperature coupled with high level of relative humidity. Sambalpur in western Odisha turned out to be the hottest place in the state, recording 45 degrees Celsius followed by 44.4 degrees in neighbouring Hirakud and 44.2 degrees in Jharsuguda, the Meteorological Centre here said. The state capital Bhubaneswar recorded a maximum temperature of 40.3 degrees Celsius, up from 37.8 degrees Celsius measured on Monday, while relative humidity in the city stood at 87 per cent, it said. The MeT has forecast heat wave conditions to prevail in many parts of the state for at least next three days. People of Himachal Pradesh, however, got some respite from the scorching heat as light rains lashed isolated parts of the state. Shimla and Kufri were lashed by 8 mm rains each followed by Bhuntar 3 mm, Manali 2 mm, Chamba and Baghi 1 mm each and Kangra recorded 0.1 mm rain. Una was the hottest place at 44.8 degrees Celsius. There were reports of mild snowfall on high peaks of Lahaul and Spiti. Rain is also likely to occur in several parts of the state on Wednesday. The Met Centre has issued yellow weather warning of thunderstorm accompanied with gusty winds for plains, low and mid hills of the state on Wednesday.

Heat wave rages on; four elderly pilgrims die of heat in train in Jhansi

Maharashtra district Chandrapur recorded 47.8 degrees temperature making it the hottest city in India yesterday, this week temperature will be going to rise more than 3 to 5 degrees.Watch this video to know more.

Severe heat wave across the globe

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a red alert - the highest warning level - for Maharashtra's Vidarbha region and central India. The alert will remain in place till Wednesday.

The six districts in Vidarbha region have been experiencing very high temperatures over the last few days - the highest temperature was recorded in Akola which sizzled at 46.9 degrees Celsius. The MeT department says the temperature will hover around 46 and 47 degrees Celsius.

"There is likelihood of a very severe heat wave in some areas and heat wave in many parts of Vidarbha of eastern Maharashtra and Western Madhya Pradesh, besides heat wave conditions in other regions of central India," IMD Deputy Director-General M L Sahu said.

Apart from Akola, the mercury soared to 46.8 degrees Celsius in Nagpur and Amravati, 46.6 degrees in Chandrapur and 45 degrees in Wardha, Yavatmal and Washim.

The State Disaster Centre in Mumbai and Nagpur said there are no heat-wave related deaths so far in&nbsp; the region, though some people have been hospitalised in parts of Vidarbha.

With the red alert issued, all concerned agencies are in a state of full preparedness to tackle any emergencies arising among the people affected by the soaring temperatures.

People, especially children and senior citizens, have been advised to refrain from going outdoors between 11am-4pm, remain hydrated, avoid aerated drinks and immediately seek medical advice for any heat-related symptoms.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a red alert - the highest warning level - for Maharashtra's Vidarbha region and central India. The alert will remain in place till Wednesday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a red alert - the highest warning level - for Maharashtra's Vidarbha region and central India. The alert will remain in place till Wednesday. The six districts in Vidarbha region have been experiencing very high temperatures over the last few days - the highest temperature was recorded in Akola which sizzled at 46.9 degrees Celsius. The MeT department says the temperature will hover around 46 and 47 degrees Celsius. "There is likelihood of a very severe heat wave in some areas and heat wave in many parts of Vidarbha of eastern Maharashtra and Western Madhya Pradesh, besides heat wave conditions in other regions of central India," IMD Deputy Director-General M L Sahu said. Apart from Akola, the mercury soared to 46.8 degrees Celsius in Nagpur and Amravati, 46.6 degrees in Chandrapur and 45 degrees in Wardha, Yavatmal and Washim. The State Disaster Centre in Mumbai and Nagpur said there are no heat-wave related deaths so far in the region, though some people have been hospitalised in parts of Vidarbha. With the red alert issued, all concerned agencies are in a state of full preparedness to tackle any emergencies arising among the people affected by the soaring temperatures. People, especially children and senior citizens, have been advised to refrain from going outdoors between 11am-4pm, remain hydrated, avoid aerated drinks and immediately seek medical advice for any heat-related symptoms.

Heat wave: Red alert for central India, temperature to hover around 47°C

Scorching temperatures suspended play at the Australian Open tennis grand slam in Melbourne on Friday, expected to be the hottest day in a decade, as a week-old heat wave brought power outages and left streets bare in the business district.

Firefighters went on alert as the mercury crept towards an expected maximum of 44 degrees Celsius (111 F), the highest since Black Saturday bushfires in 2009 that killed about 180 people in the southeastern state of Victoria.

"Glam Slam and Australian Tennis Championships matches have been suspended on all outside courts at Melbourne Park and Albert Reserve," tournament organisers said on social media.

It was the second day that heat had affected play, after the roof at the Rod Laver arena was closed on Thursday for the women's semi finals match.

But the blistering heat did not stop the world No. 4, Japan's Naomi Osaka, from taking to the practice courts early, ahead of Saturday's women's final, where she faces the world number 6, the Czech Petra Kvitova.

Crowds were only expected to gather later in the day for the men's semifinals between world No. 1 Novak Djokovic, and Lucas Pouille of France, ranked 31.

Fire officials in the state's north set the danger rating to "extreme," while bushfires raging out of control around eastern Timbarra prompted an emergency warning to campers.

In the southern island state of Tasmania, officials issued eight emergency warnings.

"We've got a lot of fire in the landscape," state fire official Andrew McGuinness told broadcaster ABC. "Some of those fires are quite large. And already, we're seeing quite nasty fire weather conditions."

In Victoria, home to 4 million people, rolling power outages of two hours each could hit about 60,000 homes, after blackouts on Thursday in Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, which saw temperatures hit 46.2 C (115.16 F), surpassing a record set in 1939.

Australia's power operator again ordered industrial users to ease back and reduce pressure on Victoria's overburdened grid, including an aluminium smelter owned by Alcoa in the town of Portland.

Only a few people sat under the umbrellas outside Melbourne cafes that are usually heaving by midday, while ice cream melted slowly in the open-air storefront of a Ben and Jerry’s that had no customers.

Still, some businesses were banking on more patrons as temperatures cool ahead of a long weekend anchored by Saturday's national holiday, Australia Day.

"Days like this attract more customers for us," said Charlotte Jobling, of the Ice Bar in the trendy Fitzroy district.

"Although the streets are a bit quieter, people who are out and about are more likely to come inside. We are hopeful for a full-on evening tonight."

Scorching temperatures suspended play at the Australian Open tennis grand slam in Melbourne on Friday, expected to be the hottest day in a decade, as a week-old heat wave brought power outages and left streets bare in the business district.

Scorching temperatures suspended play at the Australian Open tennis grand slam in Melbourne on Friday, expected to be the hottest day in a decade, as a week-old heat wave brought power outages and left streets bare in the business district. Firefighters went on alert as the mercury crept towards an expected maximum of 44 degrees Celsius (111 F), the highest since Black Saturday bushfires in 2009 that killed about 180 people in the southeastern state of Victoria. "Glam Slam and Australian Tennis Championships matches have been suspended on all outside courts at Melbourne Park and Albert Reserve," tournament organisers said on social media. It was the second day that heat had affected play, after the roof at the Rod Laver arena was closed on Thursday for the women's semi finals match. But the blistering heat did not stop the world No. 4, Japan's Naomi Osaka, from taking to the practice courts early, ahead of Saturday's women's final, where she faces the world number 6, the Czech Petra Kvitova. Crowds were only expected to gather later in the day for the men's semifinals between world No. 1 Novak Djokovic, and Lucas Pouille of France, ranked 31. Fire officials in the state's north set the danger rating to "extreme," while bushfires raging out of control around eastern Timbarra prompted an emergency warning to campers. In the southern island state of Tasmania, officials issued eight emergency warnings. "We've got a lot of fire in the landscape," state fire official Andrew McGuinness told broadcaster ABC. "Some of those fires are quite large. And already, we're seeing quite nasty fire weather conditions." In Victoria, home to 4 million people, rolling power outages of two hours each could hit about 60,000 homes, after blackouts on Thursday in Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, which saw temperatures hit 46.2 C (115.16 F), surpassing a record set in 1939. Australia's power operator again ordered industrial users to ease back and reduce pressure on Victoria's overburdened grid, including an aluminium smelter owned by Alcoa in the town of Portland. Only a few people sat under the umbrellas outside Melbourne cafes that are usually heaving by midday, while ice cream melted slowly in the open-air storefront of a Ben and Jerry’s that had no customers. Still, some businesses were banking on more patrons as temperatures cool ahead of a long weekend anchored by Saturday's national holiday, Australia Day. "Days like this attract more customers for us," said Charlotte Jobling, of the Ice Bar in the trendy Fitzroy district. "Although the streets are a bit quieter, people who are out and about are more likely to come inside. We are hopeful for a full-on evening tonight."

Heat wave brings blackouts to Melbourne, halts play at Australian Open

No respite for Delhiites from scorching heat as the temperature continued to soar on Monday at 44.2 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature was recorded at 26.3 degree Celsius.&nbsp;

The maximum temperature was recorded at 43.5 degrees Celsius, three notches above the season's average, while the minimum settled in at 27.2 degrees Celsius, normal for this time of the year, said a Meteorological Department official.

The humidity level has been swinging between 60 and 19 per cent, the official added.

"The maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to hover at 43 and 28 degrees Celsius respectively," the official said.

According to the MeT department, there is a possibility of overcast skies, along with the possibility of a dust storm and thunderstorm tomorrow evening.

The Meteorological Department had warned of heatwave conditions in North India last week.

On Saturday, along with Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, &nbsp;Karauli in Rajasthan and other areas like Sawai Madhavpur, Barmer, Churu, Pokharan, Jaisalmer and Tonk recorded the highest temperature of the season as the mercury hit 47 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

The IMD warned that the highest temperature could reach 48 degrees.

Khajuraho was the hottest at 47 degree Celsius while Damoh recorded 46.5, Shajapur was at 47.0 and Gwalior at 46.6.

 
&nbsp;

According to the MeT department, there is a possibility of overcast skies, along with the possibility of a dust storm and thunderstorm tomorrow evening

No respite for Delhiites from scorching heat as the temperature continued to soar on Monday at 44.2 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature was recorded at 26.3 degree Celsius. The maximum temperature was recorded at 43.5 degrees Celsius, three notches above the season's average, while the minimum settled in at 27.2 degrees Celsius, normal for this time of the year, said a Meteorological Department official. The humidity level has been swinging between 60 and 19 per cent, the official added. "The maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to hover at 43 and 28 degrees Celsius respectively," the official said. According to the MeT department, there is a possibility of overcast skies, along with the possibility of a dust storm and thunderstorm tomorrow evening. The Meteorological Department had warned of heatwave conditions in North India last week. On Saturday, along with Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, Karauli in Rajasthan and other areas like Sawai Madhavpur, Barmer, Churu, Pokharan, Jaisalmer and Tonk recorded the highest temperature of the season as the mercury hit 47 degrees Celsius. The IMD warned that the highest temperature could reach 48 degrees. Khajuraho was the hottest at 47 degree Celsius while Damoh recorded 46.5, Shajapur was at 47.0 and Gwalior at 46.6.

No respite for locals as heat wave conditions prevail in Delhi

South Asia, home to one-fifth of the world&#39;s population, could see humid heat rise to unsurvivable levels by century&#39;s end if nothing is done to halt global warming, researchers said.

The study in the journal Science Advances warned of &quot;summer heat waves with levels of heat and humidity that exceed what humans can survive without protection.&quot;

The research is based on two climate models. One is a &quot;business-as-usual&quot; scenario in which little is done to contain climate change, and the second is aimed at limiting temperature rise to well below two degrees Celsius, as pledged by more than 190 nations under the 2015 Paris climate accord.

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New research, published Wednesday in Science Advances indicated that in the future, parts of the world will become so hot and humid that they may be left uninhabitable (WION)
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The study is the first of its kind to look not just at temperatures, but at the forecast of &quot;wet-bulb temperature,&quot; which combines temperature, humidity and the human body&#39;s ability to cool down in response.

The survivability threshold is considered to be 35 degrees Celsius, or 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

Under a business-as-usual scenario, &quot;wet-bulb temperatures are projected to approach the survivability threshold over most of South Asia, and exceed it at a few locations, by the end of the century,&quot; said the report.

About 30 percent of the population in the region would be exposed to these harmful temperatures, up from zero percent at present, said the report.

The densely populated farming regions of South Asia could fare the worst, because workers are exposed to heat with little opportunity for escape into air-conditioned environments.

&quot;Deadly heat waves could begin within as little as a few decades to strike regions of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, including the fertile Indus and Ganges river basins that produce much of the region&#39;s food supply,&quot; said the report.

Indian is home to 1.25 billion people, while another 350 million live in Bangladesh and Pakistan.&nbsp;Already in 2015, the fifth deadliest heat wave in modern history swept over large parts of India and Pakistan, killing some 3,500 people.

But researchers said their models gave cause for hope, too. Under the scenario in which steps are taken to limit warming over the coming decades, the population exposed to harmful wet-bulb temperatures would increase from zero to just two percent.

Temperatures would still reach dangerous levels (over 31 Celsius), but would not be quite so close to the fatal threshold.

&quot;There is value in mitigation, as far as public health and reducing heat waves,&quot; said lead author Elfatih Eltahirhe, professor of environmental engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

&quot;With mitigation, we hope we will be able to avoid these severe projections. This is not something that is unavoidable.&quot;

The study in the journal Science Advances warned of "summer heat waves with levels of heat and humidity that exceed what humans can survive without protection."

South Asia, home to one-fifth of the world's population, could see humid heat rise to unsurvivable levels by century's end if nothing is done to halt global warming, researchers said. The study in the journal Science Advances warned of "summer heat waves with levels of heat and humidity that exceed what humans can survive without protection." The research is based on two climate models. One is a "business-as-usual" scenario in which little is done to contain climate change, and the second is aimed at limiting temperature rise to well below two degrees Celsius, as pledged by more than 190 nations under the 2015 Paris climate accord. New research, published Wednesday in Science Advances indicated that in the future, parts of the world will become so hot and humid that they may be left uninhabitable (WION) × The study is the first of its kind to look not just at temperatures, but at the forecast of "wet-bulb temperature," which combines temperature, humidity and the human body's ability to cool down in response. The survivability threshold is considered to be 35 degrees Celsius, or 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Under a business-as-usual scenario, "wet-bulb temperatures are projected to approach the survivability threshold over most of South Asia, and exceed it at a few locations, by the end of the century," said the report. About 30 percent of the population in the region would be exposed to these harmful temperatures, up from zero percent at present, said the report. The densely populated farming regions of South Asia could fare the worst, because workers are exposed to heat with little opportunity for escape into air-conditioned environments. "Deadly heat waves could begin within as little as a few decades to strike regions of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, including the fertile Indus and Ganges river basins that produce much of the region's food supply," said the report. Indian is home to 1.25 billion people, while another 350 million live in Bangladesh and Pakistan. Already in 2015, the fifth deadliest heat wave in modern history swept over large parts of India and Pakistan, killing some 3,500 people. But researchers said their models gave cause for hope, too. Under the scenario in which steps are taken to limit warming over the coming decades, the population exposed to harmful wet-bulb temperatures would increase from zero to just two percent. Temperatures would still reach dangerous levels (over 31 Celsius), but would not be quite so close to the fatal threshold. "There is value in mitigation, as far as public health and reducing heat waves," said lead author Elfatih Eltahirhe, professor of environmental engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). "With mitigation, we hope we will be able to avoid these severe projections. This is not something that is unavoidable."

South Asia could see humid heat rise to unsurvivable levels: Study

<div style="text-align: justify;">Last summer, temperatures as high as 45 degrees Celsius led to more than a thousand heat-related deaths in Karachi. This year, as it prepares for the peak of summer heat, the city has opened 179 heatstroke centres to try to hold down the death toll. 
 
Officials have also trained new ambulance drivers, and are working with utility companies to try to keep electricity and water flowing as the city&rsquo;s 24 million people battle summer heat during the month-long Islamic fast of Ramzan, when drinking water and eating is forbidden during daylight hours. 
 
Imams have said those whose lives&nbsp;are&nbsp;at risk due to a&nbsp;fast need not stick&nbsp;to it in extreme conditions. 
 
&ldquo;If a doctor says that your life is threatened due to the scorching heat, or you have a medical condition and it is going to get worse due to the fasting, then you can skip the daily fast,&rdquo; Muhammad Tahir Ashrafi, chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council, an organisation of scholars and religious clerics, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation in an interview. 
 
If any area of Pakistan is hit by extreme heat during Ramzan, which began June 7, the council will remind followers of this&nbsp;flexibility in public service media announcements, Ashrafi&nbsp;said. 
 
In Pakistan&rsquo;s southern Sindh province, temperatures have already hit 52 degree Celcius&nbsp;in Larkana, with Jacobabad and Moenjodaro just slightly cooler, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department. 
 
In the port city of Karachi, where temperatures so far remain below 40 degrees Celsius, heat relief centres are open, providing drinking water to passersby. 
 
Last summer, more than 1,270 people died in Karachi, and nearly 36,000 were hospitalised or hit by water and electricity shortages during 13 consecutive days of scorching temperatures in June and July. 
 
Officials of the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority-Sindh and the health department say they are better prepared to deal with extreme heat this year, but experts warn deaths are still a risk unless new measures work. 
 
Ghulam Rasul, director general Pakistan Meteorological Department, said a new early warning centre set up in Karachi in April aims to release warnings to government bodies, media and other organisations three days in advance of expected heat waves this year. 
 
&ldquo;We have already identified the most vulnerable areas in Karachi, with help of the district administration, to convey the warnings instantly and keep the people safe from sizzling temperatures,&rdquo; he said. 
 
The Met Office is also in touch with K-Electric, the main provider of electricity to around 20 million people in Karachi, and with the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board to try to head off unscheduled water and power blackouts during heat waves. 
 
Such blackouts have already prompted near daily protests, including in slum areas, where the shortages are worst. 
 
In March and April, over 400 volunteers and ambulance drivers were trained to give first aid to heatstroke victims and get them to hospitals, said Ajay Kumar Sewani, assistant director for administration at the Provincial Disaster Management Authority-Sindh. 
 
He said that heat wave emergency first aid centres have been set up in almost all major cities of the province including Karachi, Hyderabad, Larkana, Mirpur and Sukkur. The centres offer oral rehydration solution, some medicines and ambulance services to nearby hospitals. 
 
The provincial disaster management authority has distributed a half million brochures and 6,000 banners in cities across Sindh in an effort to raise awareness about heat risks, he said. A radio and television advertisement campaign also is planned. 
 
The materials advise people to drink as much water as possible, avoid drinking dehydrating tea and coffee, try to stay inside or under a shade from 10 am to 4 pm and cover their heads with a cap during the daytime. 
 
It also offers advice on recognising the symptoms of heatstroke and heat exhaustion, and has telephone numbers for relief centres. 
 
&ldquo;Our aim is to ensure and guarantee zero deaths during the heat wave and we are prepared for it,&rdquo; Sewani said. 
 
Local media reported two heat wave-related deaths in Karachi during the last week of April, but they have yet to be officially confirmed. 
 
Some experts, however, say Sindh&rsquo;s plans are a good start but such measures need to be carried out effectively &ndash; and used throughout Pakistan. 
 
Heat-related deaths are preventable if the Met Office releases its forecast well in advance and district administrations have a proper management plan, said Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, chief executive officer of Lead Pakistan, a non-profit organisation in Islamabad. But so far that is not the case countrywide, he said. 
 
A crucial component of an effective heat wave management plan is a comprehensive institutional communication and coordination plan. &ldquo;This is important to prevent duplication of efforts and identify the most vulnerable areas,&rdquo; Sheikh&nbsp;said. 
 
Early users of Karachi&rsquo;s heat relief centres said they are already hugely helpful to students, commuters and pedestrians who stop by to drink water, rinse their faces and just cool off when temperatures soar. 
 
&ldquo;The district administration has made much better arrangements this time and we hope no one dies this Ramadan, unlike the last year,&rdquo; said Sumera Ambreen, 21, a medical student who stopped at a centre in North Nazimabad recently. 
(Reuters)</div>

Karachi rolls-out 179 heatstroke centres and trains ambulance drivers in attempt to control death toll due to the heat wave

Last summer, temperatures as high as 45 degrees Celsius led to more than a thousand heat-related deaths in Karachi. This year, as it prepares for the peak of summer heat, the city has opened 179 heatstroke centres to try to hold down the death toll. Officials have also trained new ambulance drivers, and are working with utility companies to try to keep electricity and water flowing as the city’s 24 million people battle summer heat during the month-long Islamic fast of Ramzan, when drinking water and eating is forbidden during daylight hours. Imams have said those whose lives are at risk due to a fast need not stick to it in extreme conditions. “If a doctor says that your life is threatened due to the scorching heat, or you have a medical condition and it is going to get worse due to the fasting, then you can skip the daily fast,” Muhammad Tahir Ashrafi, chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council, an organisation of scholars and religious clerics, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation in an interview. If any area of Pakistan is hit by extreme heat during Ramzan, which began June 7, the council will remind followers of this flexibility in public service media announcements, Ashrafi said. In Pakistan’s southern Sindh province, temperatures have already hit 52 degree Celcius in Larkana, with Jacobabad and Moenjodaro just slightly cooler, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department. In the port city of Karachi, where temperatures so far remain below 40 degrees Celsius, heat relief centres are open, providing drinking water to passersby. Last summer, more than 1,270 people died in Karachi, and nearly 36,000 were hospitalised or hit by water and electricity shortages during 13 consecutive days of scorching temperatures in June and July. Officials of the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority-Sindh and the health department say they are better prepared to deal with extreme heat this year, but experts warn deaths are still a risk unless new measures work. Ghulam Rasul, director general Pakistan Meteorological Department, said a new early warning centre set up in Karachi in April aims to release warnings to government bodies, media and other organisations three days in advance of expected heat waves this year. “We have already identified the most vulnerable areas in Karachi, with help of the district administration, to convey the warnings instantly and keep the people safe from sizzling temperatures,” he said. The Met Office is also in touch with K-Electric, the main provider of electricity to around 20 million people in Karachi, and with the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board to try to head off unscheduled water and power blackouts during heat waves. Such blackouts have already prompted near daily protests, including in slum areas, where the shortages are worst. In March and April, over 400 volunteers and ambulance drivers were trained to give first aid to heatstroke victims and get them to hospitals, said Ajay Kumar Sewani, assistant director for administration at the Provincial Disaster Management Authority-Sindh. He said that heat wave emergency first aid centres have been set up in almost all major cities of the province including Karachi, Hyderabad, Larkana, Mirpur and Sukkur. The centres offer oral rehydration solution, some medicines and ambulance services to nearby hospitals. The provincial disaster management authority has distributed a half million brochures and 6,000 banners in cities across Sindh in an effort to raise awareness about heat risks, he said. A radio and television advertisement campaign also is planned. The materials advise people to drink as much water as possible, avoid drinking dehydrating tea and coffee, try to stay inside or under a shade from 10 am to 4 pm and cover their heads with a cap during the daytime. It also offers advice on recognising the symptoms of heatstroke and heat exhaustion, and has telephone numbers for relief centres. “Our aim is to ensure and guarantee zero deaths during the heat wave and we are prepared for it,” Sewani said. Local media reported two heat wave-related deaths in Karachi during the last week of April, but they have yet to be officially confirmed. Some experts, however, say Sindh’s plans are a good start but such measures need to be carried out effectively – and used throughout Pakistan. Heat-related deaths are preventable if the Met Office releases its forecast well in advance and district administrations have a proper management plan, said Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, chief executive officer of Lead Pakistan, a non-profit organisation in Islamabad. But so far that is not the case countrywide, he said. A crucial component of an effective heat wave management plan is a comprehensive institutional communication and coordination plan. “This is important to prevent duplication of efforts and identify the most vulnerable areas,” Sheikh said. Early users of Karachi’s heat relief centres said they are already hugely helpful to students, commuters and pedestrians who stop by to drink water, rinse their faces and just cool off when temperatures soar. “The district administration has made much better arrangements this time and we hope no one dies this Ramadan, unlike the last year,” said Sumera Ambreen, 21, a medical student who stopped at a centre in North Nazimabad recently. (Reuters)

Karachi opens heat relief centres

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