According to a scientific report, Germany has lost one of its remaining five glaciers this summer as exceedingly warm weather ate away Alpine ice at a faster pace than feared.

WION Climate Tracker: Germany loses 1 of its 5 glaciers to scalding summer

From card games to horse rides, women in Gaza are spending their summer nights outdoors to seek solace from daily hardships in the Palestinian enclave. Ghadi Francis brings you their story on The West Asia Post.

The West Asia Post | Gaza women seek outdoors escape on summer nights

Hundreds of dog lovers and their canine friends took the waves of the Pacifica state beach in California on Saturday to participate in the World dog surfing championships.

Canines catch waves during California surf competition

A new government report released by India has painted a grim picture of the consequences of climate change. Reportedly, India faced more than 200 days of heatwaves in the summer season this year alone, compared to only 36 last year. The five-time jump in the days of extreme mercury temperatures has left the experts befuddled at the express pace of climate change.&nbsp;

India’s earth sciences minister Jitendra Singh released the report and stated, “India experienced prolonged spells of heatwave during March and April 2022, hence the average maximum temperature of March 2022 had been the highest for All India (33.1C) and northwest India (30.7C) and it had been the second highest for central India (35.2C) as per the data during the period 1901 to 2022.”

A shortened Spring season

It is pertinent to note that the spring season which usually starts in February and stretches till the first few weeks of April was cut short this year. An intense hot weather climate presided over India from March which had a dire effect on the agricultural output of India.

Before the short spring, India was expected to fill the gap in wheat production left by Russia and Ukraine, currently embroiled in a war. However, the hot weather meant that wheat crops were destroyed and the government had to rein its approach, a couple of notches.&nbsp;

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heatwave-in-india-march-was-hottest-in-122-years-situation-likely-to-continue-468421">Heatwave in India: March was 'hottest in 122 years', situation likely to continue</a>

Indian subcontinent heatwave triggered by climate change

As reported extensively by WION, the extreme heatwave that engulfed major portions of India and the neighbouring country of Pakistan was rendered 30 times more likely by climate change.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/heatwaves-in-pakistan-and-india-30-times-more-likely-due-to-climate-change-study-501687" target="_blank">Heatwaves in Pakistan and India '30 times more likely' due to climate change: Study</a>

According to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, South Asia will see more intense and frequent heatwaves and humid heat stress this century.

However, it's not only India that has faced such acute climatic conditions this year. Countries like the USA, UK, China, Japan and several others have had their worst summer seasons ever since record-keeping began.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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A new government report released by India has painted a grim picture of the consequences of climate change. Reportedly, India faced more than 200 days of heatwaves in the summer season this year alone, compared to only 36 last year.

A new government report released by India has painted a grim picture of the consequences of climate change. Reportedly, India faced more than 200 days of heatwaves in the summer season this year alone, compared to only 36 last year. The five-time jump in the days of extreme mercury temperatures has left the experts befuddled at the express pace of climate change. India’s earth sciences minister Jitendra Singh released the report and stated, “India experienced prolonged spells of heatwave during March and April 2022, hence the average maximum temperature of March 2022 had been the highest for All India (33.1C) and northwest India (30.7C) and it had been the second highest for central India (35.2C) as per the data during the period 1901 to 2022.” A shortened Spring season It is pertinent to note that the spring season which usually starts in February and stretches till the first few weeks of April was cut short this year. An intense hot weather climate presided over India from March which had a dire effect on the agricultural output of India. Before the short spring, India was expected to fill the gap in wheat production left by Russia and Ukraine, currently embroiled in a war. However, the hot weather meant that wheat crops were destroyed and the government had to rein its approach, a couple of notches. Read More: Heatwave in India: March was 'hottest in 122 years', situation likely to continue Indian subcontinent heatwave triggered by climate change As reported extensively by WION, the extreme heatwave that engulfed major portions of India and the neighbouring country of Pakistan was rendered 30 times more likely by climate change. Read More: Heatwaves in Pakistan and India '30 times more likely' due to climate change: Study According to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, South Asia will see more intense and frequent heatwaves and humid heat stress this century. However, it's not only India that has faced such acute climatic conditions this year. Countries like the USA, UK, China, Japan and several others have had their worst summer seasons ever since record-keeping began. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India faced over 200 days of heatwaves in 2022; up five-times from last year

Britain recorded its hottest-ever day Tuesday as the European heat wave reaches its peak. Rail services in the country have also been heavily impacted due to high temperatures.

UK hits hottest temperature on record, railways issue 'do not travel' warning

The United Kingdom has witnessed third-hottest day on record. Hot weather has gripped southern Europe since last week, triggering wildfires in Spain, Portugal and France.

WION Climate Tracker: UK witnesses third-hottest day on record as weather office warns of serious health issues

UK witnesses third-hottest day on record as weather office warns of serious health issues

On Saturday, thousands of cyclists participated in a summertime bicycle parade in the Russian capital. Moscow's first cycling parade took place in 2011.

Thousands of Moscow residents turn out for the summer bicycle parade

In France, summer holidays are sacred. Some people in France prefer August vacations and others prefer July. But why so? @mollygambhir tells you all about this dilemma.

WION Fineprint | Holiday in July or August? Decoding the French cultural war

Russia&nbsp;on Monday (September 18) called on the United Nations' highest court in The Hague, Netherlands, to toss out what it has described as a “hopelessly flawed” case that challenges Moscow’s claim that “genocide” in eastern Ukraine was a pretext for its invasion, last year.&nbsp;

The recent request was made during a hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) or the World Court, where Ukraine filed a lawsuit against Russia&nbsp;days after the war began on February 24, 2022.&nbsp;

The suit brought by Ukraine has “emphatically” denied Moscow’s claim that pro-Russian people in eastern Ukraine were being “subjected to bullying and genocide by the Kyiv regime.”&nbsp;

<h2>‘Hopelessly flawed’: Russia about Ukraine’s case</h2>

Russian representative, Gennady Kuzmin, said Ukraine’s case accusing Russia of abusing the UN Genocide Convention as a reason to launch its war “couldn’t be further from the truth”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-united-nations-top-court-ukraine-registers-genocide-case-against-russia-457279">At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia</a>

This comes as Kyiv has argued that Russia is abusing international law by saying the invasion was justified to prevent an alleged genocide in eastern Ukraine considering that the treaty does not allow an invasion to stop an alleged genocide.

Kuzmin also went on to say how Ukraine’s legal position is “hopelessly flawed” and “at odds with the longstanding jurisprudence” of the court, urging the ICJ to throw out the case.&nbsp;

“Ukraine insists no genocide has occurred,” said Kuzmin. He added, “That alone should be enough to reject the case. Because according to the court’s jurisprudence, if there was no genocide, there cannot be a violation of the Genocide Convention.”

Russia, reiterating its accusation of Ukraine committing genocide, on Monday said the “Russophobic and neo-Nazi regime in Kyiv” was using the 1948 UN Genocide Convention to which both countries are a party, as a pretext to “drag” a case before the court.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terrorist-state-ukraine-slams-russia-at-international-court-of-justice-hearing-601468">‘Terrorist state’: Ukraine slams Russia at International Court of Justice hearing</a>

<h2>About the case</h2>

A report by Reuters citing experts said that even if the ruling is in Kyiv’s favour, it would not stop the war but could impact future reparations payments.&nbsp;

In March 2022, the ICJ sided with Ukraine and ordered Russia to “immediately suspend” its military action in Ukraine but it was just a “preliminary ruling”. Not to mention the debate about the court’s competence to rule on the content of the matter since while their rulings are binding, there is no “police force” to enforce them.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-to-face-off-at-international-court-of-justice-over-genocide-claims-636923">Russia, Ukraine to face off at International Court of Justice over genocide claims</a>

Therefore the hearings, which are set to run until September 27, will not delve into the merits of the case but rather focus on legal arguments about its jurisdiction. The ICJ will also hear from 32 other states, all supporting Ukraine’s argument saying that the court has jurisdiction to move the case forward.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Russia on Monday (September 18) called on the United Nations' highest court in The Hague, Netherlands, to toss out what it has described as a “hopelessly flawed” case that challenges Moscow’s claim that “genocide” in eastern Ukraine was a pretext for its invasion, last year.

Russia on Monday (September 18) called on the United Nations' highest court in The Hague, Netherlands, to toss out what it has described as a “hopelessly flawed” case that challenges Moscow’s claim that “genocide” in eastern Ukraine was a pretext for its invasion, last year. The recent request was made during a hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) or the World Court, where Ukraine filed a lawsuit against Russia days after the war began on February 24, 2022. The suit brought by Ukraine has “emphatically” denied Moscow’s claim that pro-Russian people in eastern Ukraine were being “subjected to bullying and genocide by the Kyiv regime.” ‘Hopelessly flawed’: Russia about Ukraine’s case Russian representative, Gennady Kuzmin, said Ukraine’s case accusing Russia of abusing the UN Genocide Convention as a reason to launch its war “couldn’t be further from the truth”. ALSO READ | At United Nations' top court, Ukraine registers genocide case against Russia This comes as Kyiv has argued that Russia is abusing international law by saying the invasion was justified to prevent an alleged genocide in eastern Ukraine considering that the treaty does not allow an invasion to stop an alleged genocide. Kuzmin also went on to say how Ukraine’s legal position is “hopelessly flawed” and “at odds with the longstanding jurisprudence” of the court, urging the ICJ to throw out the case. “Ukraine insists no genocide has occurred,” said Kuzmin. He added, “That alone should be enough to reject the case. Because according to the court’s jurisprudence, if there was no genocide, there cannot be a violation of the Genocide Convention.” Russia, reiterating its accusation of Ukraine committing genocide, on Monday said the “Russophobic and neo-Nazi regime in Kyiv” was using the 1948 UN Genocide Convention to which both countries are a party, as a pretext to “drag” a case before the court. ALSO READ | ‘Terrorist state’: Ukraine slams Russia at International Court of Justice hearing About the case A report by Reuters citing experts said that even if the ruling is in Kyiv’s favour, it would not stop the war but could impact future reparations payments. In March 2022, the ICJ sided with Ukraine and ordered Russia to “immediately suspend” its military action in Ukraine but it was just a “preliminary ruling”. Not to mention the debate about the court’s competence to rule on the content of the matter since while their rulings are binding, there is no “police force” to enforce them. ALSO READ | Russia, Ukraine to face off at International Court of Justice over genocide claims Therefore the hearings, which are set to run until September 27, will not delve into the merits of the case but rather focus on legal arguments about its jurisdiction. The ICJ will also hear from 32 other states, all supporting Ukraine’s argument saying that the court has jurisdiction to move the case forward. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cancelled flights rise across US as summer travel heats up

Authorities in Taiwanese capital Taipei have reduced waiting time at traffic lights. The step has been taken to prevent discomfort and illness among pedestrians who would wait in scorching summer Sun.

Summers in Taipei are hot and humid. Temperatures often exceed 35 degrees Celcius (95F).

Announcement on reducing waiting times at the signals will result in reduction in wait times at 770 intersections in the city. The waiting time will reduce by up to one and half minutes.

The weather would be “very uncomfortable for motorcycles and pedestrians stopping and being exposed to the sun,” said Wang Yao-to, director of the Traffic Engineering Office. Wang was quoted by The Guardian.

Wait times for pedestrians at traffic signals is often topic of discussion in the city of 2.6 million residents. These wait times are long and often inconsistent. Wait times of of more than 70, 80 seconds are reportedly not uncommon.

The issue of traffic light wait-times is also caught on by advertisers. At an intersection near Taipei's famous 101 building, a giant foodpanda tells people, “Just to let you know … this red light will make you wait 115 seconds.” The advertisement jokingly tells people to order dinner while they wait for the light to turn green.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Authorities in Taiwanese capital Taipei have reduced waiting time at traffic lights. The step has been taken to prevent discomfort and illness among pedestrians who would wait in scorching summer Sun.

Authorities in Taiwanese capital Taipei have reduced waiting time at traffic lights. The step has been taken to prevent discomfort and illness among pedestrians who would wait in scorching summer Sun. Summers in Taipei are hot and humid. Temperatures often exceed 35 degrees Celcius (95F). Announcement on reducing waiting times at the signals will result in reduction in wait times at 770 intersections in the city. The waiting time will reduce by up to one and half minutes. The weather would be “very uncomfortable for motorcycles and pedestrians stopping and being exposed to the sun,” said Wang Yao-to, director of the Traffic Engineering Office. Wang was quoted by The Guardian. Wait times for pedestrians at traffic signals is often topic of discussion in the city of 2.6 million residents. These wait times are long and often inconsistent. Wait times of of more than 70, 80 seconds are reportedly not uncommon. The issue of traffic light wait-times is also caught on by advertisers. At an intersection near Taipei's famous 101 building, a giant foodpanda tells people, “Just to let you know … this red light will make you wait 115 seconds.” The advertisement jokingly tells people to order dinner while they wait for the light to turn green. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Taipei cuts traffic-light wait time for relief from summer heat

Kashmir is the first choice of tourists in summer, people are coming from across India to the valley to beat the heat. While the South Asian countries continue to battle extreme heatwave, the temperature in Kashmir remains below 20 degrees celsius.

Kashmir: Tourists beat the heat by visiting Kashmir valley

An extreme heat wave has gripped India and Pakistan, with no relief in sight south Asia is dealing with furnace like temperatures. Millions are sweltering in the heat and frequent waters and power shortages are the new normal.

Extreme heatwave breaks all records in India, April to become hottest summer month

California experienced its hottest summer on record this year as the climate crisis caused deadly heatwaves and intense wildfires in the state and across the western parts of America.&nbsp;

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon and Utah, totalling 18.4 per cent of the contiguous US also endured record hot summers.&nbsp;

Sixteen other states recorded a top-five warmest summer.

Across the lower 48 states, the average temperature in June, July and August was 76F, 2.6F above average.

This slightly exceeds that of the Dust Bowl summer of 1936.

The west faced historic heatwaves this summer, with cities across the typically cool Pacific north-west hitting their highest temperatures on record.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drone-strike-may-have-killed-aid-worker-children-and-not-isis-k-militants-reports-412228">Also read |&nbsp;US drone strike may have killed aid worker, children, and not ISIS-K militants: Reports</a>

Early summer heatwave killed hundreds of people in Oregon and Washington.

Also, nearly 500 people in Canada’s westernmost province lost their lives. Experts also warned that the heat had probably also killed more than 1 billion marine animals along Canada’s Pacific coast.

In the US, the heat strained the power grid and forced schools, businesses, outdoor pools, COVID-19 testing sites and mobile vaccination units to close.&nbsp;

A detailed scientific analysis has revealed that the heatwave would have been virtually impossible without human-caused climate change.

Thom Porter, the Cal Fire chief, last month said, "There is fire activity happening in California that we have never seen before. The critical thing for the public to know is evacuate early".&nbsp;

He further added, "Every acre can and will burn someday in this state.”

California experienced its hottest summer on record this year as the climate crisis caused deadly heatwaves and intense wildfires in the state and across the western parts of America.

California experienced its hottest summer on record this year as the climate crisis caused deadly heatwaves and intense wildfires in the state and across the western parts of America. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon and Utah, totalling 18.4 per cent of the contiguous US also endured record hot summers. Sixteen other states recorded a top-five warmest summer. Across the lower 48 states, the average temperature in June, July and August was 76F, 2.6F above average. This slightly exceeds that of the Dust Bowl summer of 1936. The west faced historic heatwaves this summer, with cities across the typically cool Pacific north-west hitting their highest temperatures on record. Also read | US drone strike may have killed aid worker, children, and not ISIS-K militants: Reports Early summer heatwave killed hundreds of people in Oregon and Washington. Also, nearly 500 people in Canada’s westernmost province lost their lives. Experts also warned that the heat had probably also killed more than 1 billion marine animals along Canada’s Pacific coast. In the US, the heat strained the power grid and forced schools, businesses, outdoor pools, COVID-19 testing sites and mobile vaccination units to close. A detailed scientific analysis has revealed that the heatwave would have been virtually impossible without human-caused climate change. Thom Porter, the Cal Fire chief, last month said, "There is fire activity happening in California that we have never seen before. The critical thing for the public to know is evacuate early". He further added, "Every acre can and will burn someday in this state.”

States across American west see hottest summer on record

President Joe Biden has invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a White House visit this summer.&nbsp;

National security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden extended the invitation during a phone call on Monday with Zelenskyy, who has publicly raised concerns about the US&nbsp;President's plan to meet with Russian leader Vladimir Putin and about a nearly completed Russia-to-Germany natural gas pipeline that would allow Russia to bypass Ukraine.

Biden made the invitation during a call that had been planned in advance of Biden's trip to Europe that culminates with a stop in Geneva next week for a face-to-face meeting with Putin as tensions in the US-Russia relationship remain high.

Zelenskyy tweeted his response: "Thank you @POTUS @JoeBiden for inviting me to visit the @WhiteHouse in July during our phone conversation. I look forward to this meeting to discuss ways to expand strategic cooperation between Ukraine and #USA."

Sullivan said Biden and Zelenskyy had the 'opportunity to talk at some length about all of the issues in the US-Ukraine relationship and President Biden was able to tell President Zelenskyy that he will stand up firmly for Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and its aspirations as we go forward."

The Ukrainians also indicated that the Biden administration had committed to sharing 900,000 COVID-19 vaccines with Kyiv. Last week, the White House announced plans to share 80 million vaccine doses 'most through the United Nations-backed COVAX programme'&nbsp;by the end of June.

About 6 million in the initial distribution of 25 million were to be directed by the White House to US&nbsp;Allies and partners, including Mexico, Canada, South Korea, the West Bank and Gaza, India, Ukraine, Kosovo, Haiti, Georgia, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, and Yemen, as well as to United Nations frontline workers.

"It will save the lives of many Ukrainians," Zelenskky said in a statement.&nbsp;The Biden administration disappointed Ukraine 'as well as many Democratic and Republican lawmakers in Washington' when it announced last month that it would not punish the German company overseeing the Russia-to-Germany pipeline known as Nord Stream 2, because it did not want to levy sanctions against an important European ally.

Russian gas currently flows through Ukraine en route to Europe, and Zelenskyy was hopeful that Biden would move to block the project that faced bipartisan opposition in Congress.

Zelenskyy reiterated his concerns about the pipeline during the call, according to the statement from his office.

 
Zelenskyy, in an interview with Axios published on Sunday, said he had urged Biden to join him 'at any moment and at any spot on the planet' before the planned Geneva meeting with Putin next week.

Ukraine has harbored hopes for increased military aid during the Biden administration and is looking for backing in its bid for NATO membership. Ukraine has long battled against Russia-backed separatists in the east and in the halls of government in Kyiv.

Crimea and large swaths of eastern Ukraine's Donbas region are under Russian occupation. Fighting in the region has claimed thousands of Ukrainian lives.

Russia launched a buildup of troops near the border earlier this year before announcing in April that it would pull back those forces.

The provocative move alarmed the US&nbsp;and other European allies. Zelenskyy, in the call, emphasised to Biden that there was still a high concentration of Russian troops and heavy weaponry there.

Zelenskyy found himself ensnared in former President Donald Trump's first impeachment, which centered around a 16-minute phone call in which Trump pressured the Ukrainian leader to investigate Biden and his son's dealings in the Eastern European nation in 2019.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

President Joe Biden has invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a White House visit this summer. National security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden extended the invitation during a phone call on Monday with Zelenskyy, who has publicly raised concerns about the US President's plan to meet with Russian leader Vladimir Putin and about a nearly completed Russia-to-Germany natural gas pipeline that would allow Russia to bypass Ukraine.

President Joe Biden has invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a White House visit this summer. National security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden extended the invitation during a phone call on Monday with Zelenskyy, who has publicly raised concerns about the US President's plan to meet with Russian leader Vladimir Putin and about a nearly completed Russia-to-Germany natural gas pipeline that would allow Russia to bypass Ukraine. Biden made the invitation during a call that had been planned in advance of Biden's trip to Europe that culminates with a stop in Geneva next week for a face-to-face meeting with Putin as tensions in the US-Russia relationship remain high. Zelenskyy tweeted his response: "Thank you @POTUS @JoeBiden for inviting me to visit the @WhiteHouse in July during our phone conversation. I look forward to this meeting to discuss ways to expand strategic cooperation between Ukraine and #USA." Sullivan said Biden and Zelenskyy had the 'opportunity to talk at some length about all of the issues in the US-Ukraine relationship and President Biden was able to tell President Zelenskyy that he will stand up firmly for Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and its aspirations as we go forward." The Ukrainians also indicated that the Biden administration had committed to sharing 900,000 COVID-19 vaccines with Kyiv. Last week, the White House announced plans to share 80 million vaccine doses 'most through the United Nations-backed COVAX programme' by the end of June. About 6 million in the initial distribution of 25 million were to be directed by the White House to US Allies and partners, including Mexico, Canada, South Korea, the West Bank and Gaza, India, Ukraine, Kosovo, Haiti, Georgia, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, and Yemen, as well as to United Nations frontline workers. "It will save the lives of many Ukrainians," Zelenskky said in a statement. The Biden administration disappointed Ukraine 'as well as many Democratic and Republican lawmakers in Washington' when it announced last month that it would not punish the German company overseeing the Russia-to-Germany pipeline known as Nord Stream 2, because it did not want to levy sanctions against an important European ally. Russian gas currently flows through Ukraine en route to Europe, and Zelenskyy was hopeful that Biden would move to block the project that faced bipartisan opposition in Congress. Zelenskyy reiterated his concerns about the pipeline during the call, according to the statement from his office. Zelenskyy, in an interview with Axios published on Sunday, said he had urged Biden to join him 'at any moment and at any spot on the planet' before the planned Geneva meeting with Putin next week. Ukraine has harbored hopes for increased military aid during the Biden administration and is looking for backing in its bid for NATO membership. Ukraine has long battled against Russia-backed separatists in the east and in the halls of government in Kyiv. Crimea and large swaths of eastern Ukraine's Donbas region are under Russian occupation. Fighting in the region has claimed thousands of Ukrainian lives. Russia launched a buildup of troops near the border earlier this year before announcing in April that it would pull back those forces. The provocative move alarmed the US and other European allies. Zelenskyy, in the call, emphasised to Biden that there was still a high concentration of Russian troops and heavy weaponry there. Zelenskyy found himself ensnared in former President Donald Trump's first impeachment, which centered around a 16-minute phone call in which Trump pressured the Ukrainian leader to investigate Biden and his son's dealings in the Eastern European nation in 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden invites Ukrainian president to White House this summer

Kids at summer camps can skip wearing masks outdoors, with some exceptions.&nbsp;

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention posted the guidance on Friday. Children, who aren't fully vaccinated should still wear masks outside when they're in crowds or in sustained close contact with others and when they are inside.&nbsp;

But fully vaccinated kids need not wear masks, indoors or outside. It's the first in a wave of guidance updates that seek to incorporate recent CDC decisions to tell Americans they don't have to be as cautious about using masks and social distancing outdoors. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, masks are no longer required at the three main movie theatre chains in the United States for people, who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, according to updated guidelines on Friday.&nbsp;

AMC Entertainment, Cinemark and Regal Cinemas said on their websites that moviegoers who are not fully vaccinated will be asked to continue wearing masks and that other social-distancing measures and cleaning protocols will remain in place.&nbsp;

"In accordance with CDC guidelines, masks are not required for guests who are fully vaccinated," AMC said on its website, referring to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "If you are not fully vaccinated, we ask that you continue to wear a mask throughout the theater unless actively enjoying food or drinks."&nbsp;

Similar updates to mask policy were made on Regal and Cinemark websites. All three chains said they would follow state and local mandates on mask-wearing, which may be different from the CDC guidelines.&nbsp;

The changes for movie theatres come two weeks after the CDC said that fully vaccinated people need not wear masks in any setting. Movie-going has begun ramping up in the United States after lengthy pandemic-related closures and a lack of new film releases.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Kids at summer camps can skip wearing masks outdoors, with some exceptions. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention posted the guidance on Friday. Children, who aren't fully vaccinated should still wear masks outside when they're in crowds or in sustained close contact with others and when they are inside.

Kids at summer camps can skip wearing masks outdoors, with some exceptions. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention posted the guidance on Friday. Children, who aren't fully vaccinated should still wear masks outside when they're in crowds or in sustained close contact with others and when they are inside. But fully vaccinated kids need not wear masks, indoors or outside. It's the first in a wave of guidance updates that seek to incorporate recent CDC decisions to tell Americans they don't have to be as cautious about using masks and social distancing outdoors. Meanwhile, masks are no longer required at the three main movie theatre chains in the United States for people, who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, according to updated guidelines on Friday. AMC Entertainment, Cinemark and Regal Cinemas said on their websites that moviegoers who are not fully vaccinated will be asked to continue wearing masks and that other social-distancing measures and cleaning protocols will remain in place. "In accordance with CDC guidelines, masks are not required for guests who are fully vaccinated," AMC said on its website, referring to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "If you are not fully vaccinated, we ask that you continue to wear a mask throughout the theater unless actively enjoying food or drinks." Similar updates to mask policy were made on Regal and Cinemark websites. All three chains said they would follow state and local mandates on mask-wearing, which may be different from the CDC guidelines. The changes for movie theatres come two weeks after the CDC said that fully vaccinated people need not wear masks in any setting. Movie-going has begun ramping up in the United States after lengthy pandemic-related closures and a lack of new film releases. (With inputs from agencies)

CDC loosens mask guidance for summer campers 

Summer has not even begun and Lake Oroville, the second-largest reservoir in California that provides drinking water to more than 25 million people, is at less than half of its average capacity at this time of year.&nbsp;

It is a worrying indication of the worsening drought conditions in the northern part of the Golden State.&nbsp;

"When we go into a year like this with the reservoir low and with really dry conditions throughout the state, that is concerning," John Yarbrough, the assistant deputy director of the California Department of Water Resources, told AFP.&nbsp;

"The reservoir is much lower than we would like to see it, much lower than typical at this time of year. It's about 47 per cent of average," he said, pointing to the cracked earth forming the lake wall.&nbsp;

Since May 10, California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency linked to drought in more than 40 counties. Conditions in Butte County, where Lake Oroville is located, are already seen as "extreme," the highest level.&nbsp;

And the situation, exacerbated by the effects of climate change across the western United States, is not expected to improve before the rains return in five or six months.&nbsp;

Yarbrough said that in 2019, which he called a 'good year’, the water level reached the trees on the edge of the dam, meaning it was about 50 meters (165 feet) higher than usual. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Residents of the area told AFP, they had never seen dry conditions like this before.&nbsp;

Many of them recalled how in 2017, they had to evacuate because torrential rains had prompted authorities to fear that the dam would break under the pressure. Not even five years later, the situation has shifted dramatically.&nbsp;

Summer has not even begun and Lake Oroville, the second-largest reservoir in California that provides drinking water to more than 25 million people, is at less than half of its average capacity at this time of year.

Summer has not even begun and Lake Oroville, the second-largest reservoir in California that provides drinking water to more than 25 million people, is at less than half of its average capacity at this time of year. It is a worrying indication of the worsening drought conditions in the northern part of the Golden State. "When we go into a year like this with the reservoir low and with really dry conditions throughout the state, that is concerning," John Yarbrough, the assistant deputy director of the California Department of Water Resources, told AFP. "The reservoir is much lower than we would like to see it, much lower than typical at this time of year. It's about 47 per cent of average," he said, pointing to the cracked earth forming the lake wall. Since May 10, California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency linked to drought in more than 40 counties. Conditions in Butte County, where Lake Oroville is located, are already seen as "extreme," the highest level. And the situation, exacerbated by the effects of climate change across the western United States, is not expected to improve before the rains return in five or six months. Yarbrough said that in 2019, which he called a 'good year’, the water level reached the trees on the edge of the dam, meaning it was about 50 meters (165 feet) higher than usual. Residents of the area told AFP, they had never seen dry conditions like this before. Many of them recalled how in 2017, they had to evacuate because torrential rains had prompted authorities to fear that the dam would break under the pressure. Not even five years later, the situation has shifted dramatically.

California already in throes of drought as summer looms 

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern plans to get married during summer but did not disclose the date, local media reported on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Ardern told Coast Radio that she and her partner television host Clarke Gayford have 'finally got a date' for the wedding, New Zealand Herald said in a report.&nbsp;

"That doesn't mean we've told anyone yet, so I feel like we should probably put some invites out," Ardern was quoted as saying by the report.&nbsp;

Ardern, 40, got engaged to Gayford, 44, during the Easter holidays in 2019 and they have a two-year-old daughter.&nbsp;

The wedding being planned in summer, which runs from December to February in the southern hemisphere, might not be celebrated in the traditional way as Ardern admitted she "feels a bit too old to have a bridal party", media reports quoted her as saying.&nbsp;

There is "nothing further to add over what has been reported this morning", a spokesman in the prime minister's office said.&nbsp;

Ardern became New Zealand's youngest prime minister when she took office in 2017 and is one of the few elected leaders to hold office while pregnant. &nbsp;

She returned to power last October delivering the biggest election victory for her centre-left Labour Party in half a century largely due to her government's decisive response to contain the COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern plans to get married during summer but did not disclose the date, local media reported on Wednesday. Ardern told Coast Radio that she and her partner television host Clarke Gayford have 'finally got a date' for the wedding, New Zealand Herald said in a report.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern plans to get married during summer but did not disclose the date, local media reported on Wednesday. Ardern told Coast Radio that she and her partner television host Clarke Gayford have 'finally got a date' for the wedding, New Zealand Herald said in a report. "That doesn't mean we've told anyone yet, so I feel like we should probably put some invites out," Ardern was quoted as saying by the report. Ardern, 40, got engaged to Gayford, 44, during the Easter holidays in 2019 and they have a two-year-old daughter. The wedding being planned in summer, which runs from December to February in the southern hemisphere, might not be celebrated in the traditional way as Ardern admitted she "feels a bit too old to have a bridal party", media reports quoted her as saying. There is "nothing further to add over what has been reported this morning", a spokesman in the prime minister's office said. Ardern became New Zealand's youngest prime minister when she took office in 2017 and is one of the few elected leaders to hold office while pregnant. She returned to power last October delivering the biggest election victory for her centre-left Labour Party in half a century largely due to her government's decisive response to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand PM Ardern plans summer wedding: Report 

US' Southwest Airlines is recalling over 2,700 flight attendants from leave to support its summer schedule, ending a voluntary furlough program introduced during the Coronavirus pandemic as travel demand waned.

World Business Watch: Southwest Airlines recalls over 2,700 flight attendants for summer

Two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paris-no-more-under-heatwave-alert-231966">heatwaves that hit France </a>this summer claimed more than 1,500 more lives, Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said Sunday.

But that toll was significantly lower than the disastrous summer of 2003, when an estimated 15,000 people died during an August <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-time-hottest-temperature-in-france-recorded-at-443c-weather-service-231244">heatwave</a>.

"We have 1,500 deaths recorded more than the average for these months, so that's 10 times fewer deaths than the 2003 heatwave," Buzyn told French radio.

This year's heatwaves hit France in June and July, with a new record temperature of 46 degrees Celsius (114.8 degrees Fahrenheit) recorded in the south on June 28.

While the 2003 heatwave lasted 20 days in all, this year's lasted for 18, in two separate heatwaves, the second covering a large part of France, Buzyn added.

The authorities' preventive measures helped keep the death rate well below the high numbers experienced in 2003, she added.

The 2003 heatwave was the deadliest recorded in France, with the central and Paris regions hardest hit.

Two heatwaves that hit France this summer claimed more than 1,500 more lives, Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said Sunday. But that toll was significantly lower than the disastrous summer of 2003, when an estimated 15,000 people died during an August heatwave.

Two heatwaves that hit France this summer claimed more than 1,500 more lives, Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said Sunday. But that toll was significantly lower than the disastrous summer of 2003, when an estimated 15,000 people died during an August heatwave. "We have 1,500 deaths recorded more than the average for these months, so that's 10 times fewer deaths than the 2003 heatwave," Buzyn told French radio. This year's heatwaves hit France in June and July, with a new record temperature of 46 degrees Celsius (114.8 degrees Fahrenheit) recorded in the south on June 28. While the 2003 heatwave lasted 20 days in all, this year's lasted for 18, in two separate heatwaves, the second covering a large part of France, Buzyn added. The authorities' preventive measures helped keep the death rate well below the high numbers experienced in 2003, she added. The 2003 heatwave was the deadliest recorded in France, with the central and Paris regions hardest hit.

France's summer heatwaves claimed 1,500 lives: Minister

Twenty-two people were killed and seven injured in Maharashtra and Jharkhand in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rainfall-to-lash-mumbai-for-next-three-days-india-meteorological-department-231366">rain-related incidents</a>, even as the dry spell continued in most parts of north India which was reeling under sweltering heat.

At least 15 people, including four children, were killed and two injured in Pune when a portion of the 22-ft high compound wall of a housing society collapsed on adjoining shanties following incessant rains, trapping the sleeping families under the debris, officials said.

The incident took place between 1:30 am and 1:45 am at Kondhwa and the victims were labourers and their family members, a majority of them from Bihar, who were living in makeshift shelters at the under-construction residential project where deep excavation work was underway.

Heavy monsoon rains continued to lash Mumbai and its neighbouring areas for the second consecutive day on Saturday and at least five persons were injured in rain-related incidents, officials said.

The suburban local trains, called the lifeline of Mumbai, remained largely unaffected and were running as per their schedule. However, in view of IMD's heavy rainfall forecast, the Central Railway (CR) cancelled some express or passenger trains, especially those between Mumbai and Pune.

According to the officials of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), 39 incidents of short circuit, 104 incidents of the uprooting of trees or falling of tree branches were reported from various parts of the city.

In Maharashtra's Thane district, two people died of electrocution in separate incidents caused by incessant rains on late Friday night. While the first incident occurred in Thane city, the other one occurred in Ambarnath.

Two people died on Saturday after being struck by lightning in separate incidents in Maharashtra's Buldhana district, police said.

While Shrikrishna Dhabal (69) was struck by a lightning bolt while working in his field in Sangrampur taluka, farm labourer Yuvraj Gavande (35) died in a similar manner in Jalgaon village, they said.

Three people, including two teenagers, died in lightning strikes in Jharkhand's Gumla district during heavy rains on Friday evening.

In the national capital, the mercury settled five notches above normal on Sunday. The minimum temperature was recorded at 30 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal, while the maximum temperature settled at 42.3 degrees, five notches above normal.&nbsp;

Parts of south Gujarat received extremely heavy rainfall Saturday, with the IMD stating that districts in the south and central parts of the state were likely to receive heavy rainfall over the next two days with upper cyclonic circulation formed over the region.

The IMD warned of heavy rains in Valsad, Navsari, Dangs, Surat, Narmada, Chhota Udepur and Vadodara districts over the next two days, adding that upper cyclonic circulation had formed over the south Gujarat region.

Valsad received 130 millimetres rainfall in a 24-hour period till Saturday morning, while Bhavnagar and Vadodara got 52.8 and 34 mm rainfall respectively, IMD data showed.&nbsp;

The heatwave continued to sweep the Jammu region as the mercury touched 43.1 degrees Celsius, four degrees above average. Summer capital Srinagar, on the other hand, continued to experience pleasant weather with a high of 29.6 degrees Celsius, up by over two notches but below the season's average.

In Punjab and Haryana, rains remained elusive even as the maximum temperatures were recorded to be between two to five notches above normal. Bhiwani and Narnaul were the hottest places in the twin states with the mercury settling at a high of 42.8 degrees Celsius, three notches above normal.

While Amritsar braved a high of 42.4 degrees Celsius, five notches above normal, the maximum temperature at Ambala was 41.8 degrees Celsius, also five notches above normal.

Moderate rain and thunderstorm were witnessed at isolated places in Eastern Uttar Pradesh even Banda was recorded as the hottest place in the state, recording a temperature of 44.8 degrees Celsius, which is eight degrees above normal.

Heatwave also swept some parts of the state and Allahabad sizzled at 44 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

According to the IMD, rain and thundershowers were observed at many places over Assam, Meghalaya, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, North Interior Karnataka and at most places over Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh and Goa.

Extremely heavy rainfall was observed at a few places over Konkan and Goa and Gujarat region, it said.

The Meteorological Department has issued a fresh yellow weather warning for a thunderstorm in Himachal Pradesh for July 3. It has forecast thunderstorms accompanied with hailstorm and gusty winds in several parts of middle hills of the state on July 3. 
 
The weather office issues colour-coded warnings to alert people ahead of severe or hazardous weather that has the potential to cause "damage, widespread disruption or danger to life". Yellow is the least dangerous of all the weather warnings. It indicates the possibility of severe weather over the next few days.

The Odisha government Saturday put all 30 districts in the state on alert in view of the IMD forecasting enhanced heavy rainfall over the next three days. The step was taken after the IMD indicated the formation of a low-pressure area in north Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood, which is likely to intensify into a depression during the subsequent 48 hours.

"Under its influence, enhanced rainfall activity is very likely over the districts of Odisha," said H R Biswas, the director of the IMD, Bhubaneswar.

 
&nbsp;

Twenty-two people were killed and seven injured in Maharashtra and Jharkhand in rain-related incidents, even as the dry spell continued in most parts of north India which was reeling under sweltering heat.

Twenty-two people were killed and seven injured in Maharashtra and Jharkhand in rain-related incidents, even as the dry spell continued in most parts of north India which was reeling under sweltering heat. At least 15 people, including four children, were killed and two injured in Pune when a portion of the 22-ft high compound wall of a housing society collapsed on adjoining shanties following incessant rains, trapping the sleeping families under the debris, officials said. The incident took place between 1:30 am and 1:45 am at Kondhwa and the victims were labourers and their family members, a majority of them from Bihar, who were living in makeshift shelters at the under-construction residential project where deep excavation work was underway. Heavy monsoon rains continued to lash Mumbai and its neighbouring areas for the second consecutive day on Saturday and at least five persons were injured in rain-related incidents, officials said. The suburban local trains, called the lifeline of Mumbai, remained largely unaffected and were running as per their schedule. However, in view of IMD's heavy rainfall forecast, the Central Railway (CR) cancelled some express or passenger trains, especially those between Mumbai and Pune. According to the officials of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), 39 incidents of short circuit, 104 incidents of the uprooting of trees or falling of tree branches were reported from various parts of the city. In Maharashtra's Thane district, two people died of electrocution in separate incidents caused by incessant rains on late Friday night. While the first incident occurred in Thane city, the other one occurred in Ambarnath. Two people died on Saturday after being struck by lightning in separate incidents in Maharashtra's Buldhana district, police said. While Shrikrishna Dhabal (69) was struck by a lightning bolt while working in his field in Sangrampur taluka, farm labourer Yuvraj Gavande (35) died in a similar manner in Jalgaon village, they said. Three people, including two teenagers, died in lightning strikes in Jharkhand's Gumla district during heavy rains on Friday evening. In the national capital, the mercury settled five notches above normal on Sunday. The minimum temperature was recorded at 30 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal, while the maximum temperature settled at 42.3 degrees, five notches above normal. Parts of south Gujarat received extremely heavy rainfall Saturday, with the IMD stating that districts in the south and central parts of the state were likely to receive heavy rainfall over the next two days with upper cyclonic circulation formed over the region. The IMD warned of heavy rains in Valsad, Navsari, Dangs, Surat, Narmada, Chhota Udepur and Vadodara districts over the next two days, adding that upper cyclonic circulation had formed over the south Gujarat region. Valsad received 130 millimetres rainfall in a 24-hour period till Saturday morning, while Bhavnagar and Vadodara got 52.8 and 34 mm rainfall respectively, IMD data showed. The heatwave continued to sweep the Jammu region as the mercury touched 43.1 degrees Celsius, four degrees above average. Summer capital Srinagar, on the other hand, continued to experience pleasant weather with a high of 29.6 degrees Celsius, up by over two notches but below the season's average. In Punjab and Haryana, rains remained elusive even as the maximum temperatures were recorded to be between two to five notches above normal. Bhiwani and Narnaul were the hottest places in the twin states with the mercury settling at a high of 42.8 degrees Celsius, three notches above normal. While Amritsar braved a high of 42.4 degrees Celsius, five notches above normal, the maximum temperature at Ambala was 41.8 degrees Celsius, also five notches above normal. Moderate rain and thunderstorm were witnessed at isolated places in Eastern Uttar Pradesh even Banda was recorded as the hottest place in the state, recording a temperature of 44.8 degrees Celsius, which is eight degrees above normal. Heatwave also swept some parts of the state and Allahabad sizzled at 44 degrees Celsius. According to the IMD, rain and thundershowers were observed at many places over Assam, Meghalaya, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, North Interior Karnataka and at most places over Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh and Goa. Extremely heavy rainfall was observed at a few places over Konkan and Goa and Gujarat region, it said. The Meteorological Department has issued a fresh yellow weather warning for a thunderstorm in Himachal Pradesh for July 3. It has forecast thunderstorms accompanied with hailstorm and gusty winds in several parts of middle hills of the state on July 3. The weather office issues colour-coded warnings to alert people ahead of severe or hazardous weather that has the potential to cause "damage, widespread disruption or danger to life". Yellow is the least dangerous of all the weather warnings. It indicates the possibility of severe weather over the next few days. The Odisha government Saturday put all 30 districts in the state on alert in view of the IMD forecasting enhanced heavy rainfall over the next three days. The step was taken after the IMD indicated the formation of a low-pressure area in north Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood, which is likely to intensify into a depression during the subsequent 48 hours. "Under its influence, enhanced rainfall activity is very likely over the districts of Odisha," said H R Biswas, the director of the IMD, Bhubaneswar.

22 killed in rain-related incidents in Maharashtra, Jharkhand; dry spell continues in North India

Wildfires and power cuts plague Europe as heatwave breaks records

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

At least 76 people have died in three Bihar districts as a searing heatwave swept most parts of the state, prompting the government to order closure of academic activities in all schools and colleges till June 22, officials said on Monday.

The Disaster Management Department said 33 people lost their lives in Aurangabad, 31 in Gaya and 12 in Nawada due to the heatwave.

In view of the continuing heatwave and loo gripping most parts of the state for the past couple of days, the government has decided to shut all the colleges, private and government schools, institutes and coaching centres till June 22, Chief Secretary Deepak Kumar said.

The chief secretary was briefing media persons after a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on two issues of deaths from suspected cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) and people dying due to blistering heatwave and loo.

He said all markets, especially in south Bihar districts, where heatwave has claimed 76 lives so far in the past three days, will be closed between 11 am to 5 pm.

The chief secretary, however, did not specify the names of the south Bihar districts where markets will remain closed.

All construction activities will be shut from 10 in the morning till the evening, Kumar said, adding that work can be done prior to 10 am and in the evening and thereafter.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had on Sunday announced Rs four lakh ex gratia to the next of kin of those killed.

Major cities in the state, including Patna, Gaya and Bhagalpur, have been witnessing the heatwave for the past couple of days.

As per the Patna Meteorological Centre, Patna, Gaya and Bhagalpur witnessed heatwave on Monday. It forecast heatwave conditions for Patna and Bhagalpur on Tuesday, while Gaya is likely to witness cloudy skies.

Patna and Gaya, which have been reeling under heatwave and loo for the past three days, recorded a high of 42.4 degrees Celsius each on Monday, the weather office said, adding that Bhagalpur and Purnea registered 41.6 and 36.0 degrees Celsius.

Patna and Bhagalpur recorded six notches above their normal maximum temperature, while Gaya recorded five notches above the normal, it said.

A heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature is recorded at 4.5 degrees or more above the normal for two consecutive days, a Met official said.

At least 76 people have died in three Bihar districts as a searing heatwave swept most parts of the state, prompting the government to order closure of academic activities in all schools and colleges till June 22, officials said on Monday.

At least 76 people have died in three Bihar districts as a searing heatwave swept most parts of the state, prompting the government to order closure of academic activities in all schools and colleges till June 22, officials said on Monday. The Disaster Management Department said 33 people lost their lives in Aurangabad, 31 in Gaya and 12 in Nawada due to the heatwave. In view of the continuing heatwave and loo gripping most parts of the state for the past couple of days, the government has decided to shut all the colleges, private and government schools, institutes and coaching centres till June 22, Chief Secretary Deepak Kumar said. The chief secretary was briefing media persons after a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on two issues of deaths from suspected cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) and people dying due to blistering heatwave and loo. He said all markets, especially in south Bihar districts, where heatwave has claimed 76 lives so far in the past three days, will be closed between 11 am to 5 pm. The chief secretary, however, did not specify the names of the south Bihar districts where markets will remain closed. All construction activities will be shut from 10 in the morning till the evening, Kumar said, adding that work can be done prior to 10 am and in the evening and thereafter. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had on Sunday announced Rs four lakh ex gratia to the next of kin of those killed. Major cities in the state, including Patna, Gaya and Bhagalpur, have been witnessing the heatwave for the past couple of days. As per the Patna Meteorological Centre, Patna, Gaya and Bhagalpur witnessed heatwave on Monday. It forecast heatwave conditions for Patna and Bhagalpur on Tuesday, while Gaya is likely to witness cloudy skies. Patna and Gaya, which have been reeling under heatwave and loo for the past three days, recorded a high of 42.4 degrees Celsius each on Monday, the weather office said, adding that Bhagalpur and Purnea registered 41.6 and 36.0 degrees Celsius. Patna and Bhagalpur recorded six notches above their normal maximum temperature, while Gaya recorded five notches above the normal, it said. A heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature is recorded at 4.5 degrees or more above the normal for two consecutive days, a Met official said.

Heatwave toll in Bihar rises to 76

Wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothes, stay indoors and avoid drinking alcohol, tea and coffee, the government said on Monday in a health advisory issued in view of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/worlds-15-hottest-places-are-in-india-pakistan-as-pre-monsoon-heat-builds-223862">ongoing spell of a heatwave</a> in parts of the country.

"Heatwave can cause adverse effects on human health, including other sectors," the advisory, issued by the Health Ministry, stated as it suggested a series of Dos and Don'ts.

The advisory asked people to use an umbrella or cap or towel when outside and frequently drink water and salted drinks like lassi, lemon water, fruit juice and ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution).

It also asked people to eat fruits such as watermelon, cucumber, lemon and orange, and take a frequent bath and reduce room temperature by using curtains, fan, cooler and air conditioner.

Watch:&nbsp;Heatwave grips northern India, red alert warning issued for Delhi

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/heatwave-grips-northern-india-red-alert-warning-issued-for-delhi-223742/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Person feeling unwell, especially old aged, young children, pregnant women, those with pre-existing medical conditions, and outdoor workers, should be immediately shifted to a cooler place, put on minimum clothing, be sponged with cold water, applied ice packs wrapped in cloth, and transported to nearest health facility," the advisory said.

It asked people not to venture out in the sun, especially between 12 pm and 3 pm.

India has been reeling under heatwave conditions over the past few days with the mercury crossing the 50 degrees Celsius-mark in Rajasthan's Churu.&nbsp;

On Monday, Churu recorded 50.3 degrees Celsius being the hottest place in the country for the third consecutive day.

At present, heatwave conditions are prevailing over parts of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Vidarbha, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, the advisory stated.&nbsp;

Wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothes, stay indoors and avoid drinking alcohol, tea and coffee, the government said on Monday in a health advisory issued in view of the ongoing spell of a heatwave in parts of the country.

Wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothes, stay indoors and avoid drinking alcohol, tea and coffee, the government said on Monday in a health advisory issued in view of the ongoing spell of a heatwave in parts of the country. "Heatwave can cause adverse effects on human health, including other sectors," the advisory, issued by the Health Ministry, stated as it suggested a series of Dos and Don'ts. The advisory asked people to use an umbrella or cap or towel when outside and frequently drink water and salted drinks like lassi, lemon water, fruit juice and ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution). It also asked people to eat fruits such as watermelon, cucumber, lemon and orange, and take a frequent bath and reduce room temperature by using curtains, fan, cooler and air conditioner. Watch: Heatwave grips northern India, red alert warning issued for Delhi "Person feeling unwell, especially old aged, young children, pregnant women, those with pre-existing medical conditions, and outdoor workers, should be immediately shifted to a cooler place, put on minimum clothing, be sponged with cold water, applied ice packs wrapped in cloth, and transported to nearest health facility," the advisory said. It asked people not to venture out in the sun, especially between 12 pm and 3 pm. India has been reeling under heatwave conditions over the past few days with the mercury crossing the 50 degrees Celsius-mark in Rajasthan's Churu. On Monday, Churu recorded 50.3 degrees Celsius being the hottest place in the country for the third consecutive day. At present, heatwave conditions are prevailing over parts of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Vidarbha, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, the advisory stated.

Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol, stay indoors: Government issues advisory as India reels under heatwave

Heatwave conditions are likely to continue over north Indian plains, central and south India for two more days and abate gradually, the IMD said Sunday.

"Due to easterly winds at lower levels over northern parts of the country, the severity of the heatwave is very likely to decrease over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi and Uttar Pradesh from today (Sunday) onwards," it said.

Severe heat wave conditions are likely to persist over Madhya Pradesh and west Rajasthan on Monday, the IMD said with a red-coded colour warning for these two states.

The IMD has four colour codes to indicate the severe weather systems - red for extremely severe weather conditions, followed by amber, yellow and then green which denotes normalcy.

It also has an amber-coded warning for east Rajasthan and Vidarbha in Maharashtra and a yellow-colour coded warning for Marathwada, Surat and Kutch, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu &amp; Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi for Monday.

Large parts of the country witnessed severe heatwave over the last week with temperatures even reaching 50 degrees Celsius in Rajasthan.

If the maximum temperature of a weather station in the plains crosses 45 degrees Celsius for two consecutive days, it is termed heatwave.

And it the temperature breaches 47 degrees Celsius for two days, it is termed severe heatwave.

If the temperature rises between 4.5-6.4 degrees Celsius above the normal, it is also termed heatwave.

If it goes beyond that, it is classified as a severe heatwave.

Heatwave conditions are likely to continue over north Indian plains, central and south India for two more days and abate gradually, the IMD said Sunday. "Due to easterly winds at lower levels over northern parts of the country, the severity of the heatwave is very likely to decrease over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi and Uttar Pradesh from today (Sunday) onwards," it said.

Heatwave conditions are likely to continue over north Indian plains, central and south India for two more days and abate gradually, the IMD said Sunday. "Due to easterly winds at lower levels over northern parts of the country, the severity of the heatwave is very likely to decrease over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi and Uttar Pradesh from today (Sunday) onwards," it said. Severe heat wave conditions are likely to persist over Madhya Pradesh and west Rajasthan on Monday, the IMD said with a red-coded colour warning for these two states. The IMD has four colour codes to indicate the severe weather systems - red for extremely severe weather conditions, followed by amber, yellow and then green which denotes normalcy. It also has an amber-coded warning for east Rajasthan and Vidarbha in Maharashtra and a yellow-colour coded warning for Marathwada, Surat and Kutch, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi for Monday. Large parts of the country witnessed severe heatwave over the last week with temperatures even reaching 50 degrees Celsius in Rajasthan. If the maximum temperature of a weather station in the plains crosses 45 degrees Celsius for two consecutive days, it is termed heatwave. And it the temperature breaches 47 degrees Celsius for two days, it is termed severe heatwave. If the temperature rises between 4.5-6.4 degrees Celsius above the normal, it is also termed heatwave. If it goes beyond that, it is classified as a severe heatwave.

Heatwave across country to continue for next two days, subside gradually: IMD

India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday warned of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-sizzles-at-45-degrees-as-heatwave-continues-its-spell-223345">severe heat wave in the national capital</a> and its adjoining states for the next few days.

Maximum temperature in the national capital will hover at 46 degree Celsius during the coming days.

Speaking exclusively to ANI, M Mohapatra, Director General, IMD's meteorology, said, "Severe heatwave condition is persisting in many parts of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, southern Uttar Pradesh, northern Madhya Pradesh and some parts of Jharkhand."

"We are expecting this to continue for the next two days. In Delhi, we are not expecting rain. As per our forecast, the maximum temperature here can be as high as 46-degrees. It will gradually come down," he said.

Mahapatra also predicted that around June 6, monsoon will be hitting Kerala. The southwest monsoon is expected to hit Odisha coast within two weeks after its onset in Kerala.

"Expecting monsoon to arrive near Kerala around June 6. At present, monsoon has covered some extreme southern parts of the Arabian Sea and parts of southwest-southeast-east central Bay of Bengal, the Andaman sea, and Andaman Nicobar islands. In the next 2-3 days it will cover more parts of Arabian Sea," he said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday warned of a severe heat wave in the national capital and its adjoining states for the next few days. Maximum temperature in the national capital will hover at 46 degree Celsius during the coming days.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday warned of a severe heat wave in the national capital and its adjoining states for the next few days. Maximum temperature in the national capital will hover at 46 degree Celsius during the coming days. Speaking exclusively to ANI, M Mohapatra, Director General, IMD's meteorology, said, "Severe heatwave condition is persisting in many parts of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, southern Uttar Pradesh, northern Madhya Pradesh and some parts of Jharkhand." "We are expecting this to continue for the next two days. In Delhi, we are not expecting rain. As per our forecast, the maximum temperature here can be as high as 46-degrees. It will gradually come down," he said. Mahapatra also predicted that around June 6, monsoon will be hitting Kerala. The southwest monsoon is expected to hit Odisha coast within two weeks after its onset in Kerala. "Expecting monsoon to arrive near Kerala around June 6. At present, monsoon has covered some extreme southern parts of the Arabian Sea and parts of southwest-southeast-east central Bay of Bengal, the Andaman sea, and Andaman Nicobar islands. In the next 2-3 days it will cover more parts of Arabian Sea," he said.

Intense heat wave to continue in Delhi: IMD

The weather department on Thursday said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heatwave-intensifies-across-nation-central-india-worst-hit-222451">heatwave condition</a> is likely to continue in Maharashtra's Vidarbha and Marathwada region for the next 3 days, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) further added that temperature in most of the places of these regions is likely to soar above 46 degree Celsius.&nbsp;

The weather watchdog has adviced people to take care and avoid going out during the afternoon.

The country continues to grapple with soaring temperatures with the national capital expected to witness over 45 degrees Celcius this week. Maharashtra and Vidarbha are witnessing the worst hit.

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IMD continues its heat wave warnings for Vidarbha &amp; Marathwada region in Maharashtra for next 3 days. Temperature in most of the places of these regions are likely to be above 46 degree Celsius. IMD advices people to take care &amp; avoid going out during afternoon. <a href="https://t.co/prM1cN0M9j">pic.twitter.com/prM1cN0M9j</a>
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Tuesday's highest temperature was recorded in Chandrapur, Maharashtra registering a whopping 47.8 degrees. Nagpur recorded the second highest in a decade and this season's highest temperature at 47.5 degrees Celsius.

Rajasthan also saw temperatures clocking in over 45 degrees in various parts like Kota, Jaisalmer.&nbsp;

Delhi woke up to a hot Wednesday morning, with the maximum temperature expected to hover around 44 degrees Celsius.

The minimum temperature settled two notches below the season's average at 24.1 degrees Celsius, said a MeT department official.

"Heatwave conditions are expected in some pockets of the city with the temperature soaring up to 45 degrees. Such conditions exist when the maximum temperature goes up five degrees above the season's average," said the official.&nbsp;

The weather department on Thursday said that the heatwave condition is likely to continue in Maharashtra's Vidarbha and Marathwada region for the next 3 days, news agency ANI reported.

The weather department on Thursday said that the heatwave condition is likely to continue in Maharashtra's Vidarbha and Marathwada region for the next 3 days, news agency ANI reported. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) further added that temperature in most of the places of these regions is likely to soar above 46 degree Celsius. The weather watchdog has adviced people to take care and avoid going out during the afternoon. The country continues to grapple with soaring temperatures with the national capital expected to witness over 45 degrees Celcius this week. Maharashtra and Vidarbha are witnessing the worst hit. IMD continues its heat wave warnings for Vidarbha & Marathwada region in Maharashtra for next 3 days. Temperature in most of the places of these regions are likely to be above 46 degree Celsius. IMD advices people to take care & avoid going out during afternoon. pic.twitter.com/prM1cN0M9j — ANI (@ANI) May 30, 2019 × Tuesday's highest temperature was recorded in Chandrapur, Maharashtra registering a whopping 47.8 degrees. Nagpur recorded the second highest in a decade and this season's highest temperature at 47.5 degrees Celsius. Rajasthan also saw temperatures clocking in over 45 degrees in various parts like Kota, Jaisalmer. Delhi woke up to a hot Wednesday morning, with the maximum temperature expected to hover around 44 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature settled two notches below the season's average at 24.1 degrees Celsius, said a MeT department official. "Heatwave conditions are expected in some pockets of the city with the temperature soaring up to 45 degrees. Such conditions exist when the maximum temperature goes up five degrees above the season's average," said the official.

Heatwave to batter Maharashtra's Vidarbha and Marathwada, IMD asks people to stay in

The country continues to grapple with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/record-heat-hits-us-southeast-threat-of-flooding-remains-in-central-states-222096">soaring temperatures</a> with the national capital expected to witness over 45 degrees Celcius this week. Maharashtra and Vidarbha are witnessing the worst hit.

Tuesday's highest temperature was recorded in Chandrapur, Maharashtra registering a whopping 47.8 degrees. Nagpur recorded the second highest in a decade and this season's highest temperature at 47.5 degrees Celsius.

Rajasthan also saw temperatures clocking in over 45 degrees in various parts like Kota, Jaisalmer.&nbsp;

As per US-based weather forecast unit El Dorado, six out of 15 hottest cities in the world are from India this summer season.&nbsp;

Chandrapur (47.8°C), Nagpur Sonegaon (47.5°C), Bramhapuri (46.9°C), Wardha (46.5°C), Adilabad (46.3°C) and Banda (46.2°C) featured on the list which was topped by Cape St Francis, South Africa with 56.8°C.

&nbsp;<img alt="Hottest cities in world" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ec901d34-1d64-4c0a-bc55-829a3ebee38d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hottest%20Cities%20in%20World.jpg" />

Delhi woke up to a hot Wednesday morning, with the maximum temperature expected to hover around 44 degrees Celsius.

The minimum temperature settled two notches below the season's average at 24.1 degrees Celsius, said a MeT department official.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/odisha-met-department-issues-yellow-warning-due-to-heat-wave-conditions-221664">Heatwave conditions</a> are expected in some pockets of the city with the temperature soaring up to 45 degrees. Such conditions exist when the maximum temperature goes up five degrees above the season's average," said the official.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ramagundam in Peddapalli district of Telangana recorded 47.2-degree Celsius temperature, the highest in last 10 years, earlier this week.

Heatwave continues to thrash Southern states like <a href="Heatwave intensifies across nation, Maharashtra, Central India worst hit">Telangana and Andhra Pradesh</a>.

The weather reported the temperature in Adilabad and Nalgonda at 45.8-degree Celsius. Khammam and Medak recorded 44.6 degrees Celsius and 44.8 degrees Celsius respectively.

Speaking to ANI, meteorologist Raja Rao said, "In few places, heat wave conditions are going to continue for a few more days. On Sunday, the heat wave in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh entered 23 days and 10 days, respectively."

In Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati recorded 44.8 degrees Celsius while Amaravati witnessed a slightly low of 43-degree Celsius."

Around two-thirds of the country simmers under sweltering heat. North Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh, Rajasthan are also under the grip of a heatwave.

The country continues to grapple with soaring temperatures with the national capital expected to witness over 45 degrees Celcius this week. Maharashtra and Vidarbha are witnessing the worst hit.

The country continues to grapple with soaring temperatures with the national capital expected to witness over 45 degrees Celcius this week. Maharashtra and Vidarbha are witnessing the worst hit. Tuesday's highest temperature was recorded in Chandrapur, Maharashtra registering a whopping 47.8 degrees. Nagpur recorded the second highest in a decade and this season's highest temperature at 47.5 degrees Celsius. Rajasthan also saw temperatures clocking in over 45 degrees in various parts like Kota, Jaisalmer. As per US-based weather forecast unit El Dorado, six out of 15 hottest cities in the world are from India this summer season. Chandrapur (47.8°C), Nagpur Sonegaon (47.5°C), Bramhapuri (46.9°C), Wardha (46.5°C), Adilabad (46.3°C) and Banda (46.2°C) featured on the list which was topped by Cape St Francis, South Africa with 56.8°C. Delhi woke up to a hot Wednesday morning, with the maximum temperature expected to hover around 44 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature settled two notches below the season's average at 24.1 degrees Celsius, said a MeT department official. "Heatwave conditions are expected in some pockets of the city with the temperature soaring up to 45 degrees. Such conditions exist when the maximum temperature goes up five degrees above the season's average," said the official. Meanwhile, Ramagundam in Peddapalli district of Telangana recorded 47.2-degree Celsius temperature, the highest in last 10 years, earlier this week. Heatwave continues to thrash Southern states like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The weather reported the temperature in Adilabad and Nalgonda at 45.8-degree Celsius. Khammam and Medak recorded 44.6 degrees Celsius and 44.8 degrees Celsius respectively. Speaking to ANI, meteorologist Raja Rao said, "In few places, heat wave conditions are going to continue for a few more days. On Sunday, the heat wave in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh entered 23 days and 10 days, respectively." In Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati recorded 44.8 degrees Celsius while Amaravati witnessed a slightly low of 43-degree Celsius." Around two-thirds of the country simmers under sweltering heat. North Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh, Rajasthan are also under the grip of a heatwave.

Heatwave intensifies across nation; Maharashtra, Central India worst hit

The national capital reeled under searing heat Tuesday, recording a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heat-wave-red-alert-for-central-india-temperature-to-hover-around-47degc-214747">maximum temperature</a> of 43.7 degrees Celsius, the highest for the season so far.

However, some relief is around the corner with the weather office predicting gusty winds and thunderstorm on Wednesday.&nbsp;

"The city recorded a maximum of 43.7 degrees Celsius, which is the highest for the season so far, and a low of 23 degrees Celsius. The humidity level oscillated between 21 and 60 per cent," a MeT official said.

The official said the sky would remain partly cloudy and there's a possibility of dust storm and thunderstorm with winds gusting to 30-40 km per hour.

Over the last week, Delhi has been witnessing temperatures crossing the 40- degree Celsius mark.&nbsp;

On Monday, the city recorded a high of 42 degrees Celsius and a low of 23.4 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

The national capital reeled under searing heat Tuesday, recording a maximum temperature of 43.7 degrees Celsius, the highest for the season so far. However, some relief is around the corner with the weather office predicting gusty winds and thunderstorm on Wednesday.

The national capital reeled under searing heat Tuesday, recording a maximum temperature of 43.7 degrees Celsius, the highest for the season so far. However, some relief is around the corner with the weather office predicting gusty winds and thunderstorm on Wednesday. "The city recorded a maximum of 43.7 degrees Celsius, which is the highest for the season so far, and a low of 23 degrees Celsius. The humidity level oscillated between 21 and 60 per cent," a MeT official said. The official said the sky would remain partly cloudy and there's a possibility of dust storm and thunderstorm with winds gusting to 30-40 km per hour. Over the last week, Delhi has been witnessing temperatures crossing the 40- degree Celsius mark. On Monday, the city recorded a high of 42 degrees Celsius and a low of 23.4 degrees Celsius.

At scorching 43.7°C, Delhi records season's highest temperature so far

Australia looks set to sweat through one of its hottest Decembers ever, the national weather bureau said on Friday, prompting fire bans, health warnings and big crowds trying to cool off at beaches.

As the country's hottest town, Marble Bar in the remote northwest, endured its warmest day ever, forecasters said the heat would spread southeast where the big cities of Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide would endure monthly average temperatures up to 16 degrees Celsius higher than usual.

The capital, Canberra, was bracing for its hottest December day on record -- 39C (102F) -- on Saturday.

"We're going to see December records tumbling," said Diana Eadie, a meteorologist at the Bureau of Meteorology.

"We're definitely not out of it yet, in fact I would say it's going to be peaking over more populated areas this weekend."

December is the beginning of the Southern Hemisphere summer. January and February can be even hotter.

For the four-fifths of Australia's 25 million people who live on the coast, the summer typically means lazing on the beach, watching cricket or both.

But the unusually high temperatures add to a sense of exhaustion for a farm economy already reeling from a year of drought.

"It adds insult to injury," said Laureta Wallace, a spokeswoman for the National Farmers' Federation.

"Most farmers would have got some rain prior to Christmas but the benefit of that will have been eroded with this heat wave. Water's an issue."

The Bureau of Meteorology put the hot spell down to a combination of hot air being blown from the northwest toward the densely populated southeast, where a "blocking" high off the coast was stopping cooler winds from moving it on.

The bureau's "extreme heatwave" warning, its highest category, includes Sydney for the next three days.

Sydney's inland suburbs were forecast to swelter in 40C (104F) heat.

Almost the entire state of New South Wales had a "high" or "very high" fire danger, according to the rural fire service.

A "low-intensity heatwave" in neighbouring Victoria state was expected to spread south almost as far as the second city Melbourne.

Health authorities have issued warnings for pregnant women, babies, people aged over 65 and people with lung conditions since the heat eroded air quality.

The town recognised by Australians as their hottest, Marble Bar, with a population 174, had a reprieve on Friday from its 49.1C (120.4F) record a day earlier, enjoying a relatively comfortable 41.1C (106F) by midday.

"You really don't want to be out digging holes in the middle of the ground, or chasing gold," Lang Coppin, a former cattle rancher and gold prospector, told Reuters from Marble Bar.

"What we've always done is do the physical work in the morning and then knock off. Be like the kangaroos and get under the tree."

Australia looks set to sweat through one of its hottest Decembers ever, the national weather bureau said on Friday, prompting fire bans, health warnings and big crowds trying to cool off at beaches.

Australia looks set to sweat through one of its hottest Decembers ever, the national weather bureau said on Friday, prompting fire bans, health warnings and big crowds trying to cool off at beaches. As the country's hottest town, Marble Bar in the remote northwest, endured its warmest day ever, forecasters said the heat would spread southeast where the big cities of Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide would endure monthly average temperatures up to 16 degrees Celsius higher than usual. The capital, Canberra, was bracing for its hottest December day on record -- 39C (102F) -- on Saturday. "We're going to see December records tumbling," said Diana Eadie, a meteorologist at the Bureau of Meteorology. "We're definitely not out of it yet, in fact I would say it's going to be peaking over more populated areas this weekend." December is the beginning of the Southern Hemisphere summer. January and February can be even hotter. For the four-fifths of Australia's 25 million people who live on the coast, the summer typically means lazing on the beach, watching cricket or both. But the unusually high temperatures add to a sense of exhaustion for a farm economy already reeling from a year of drought. "It adds insult to injury," said Laureta Wallace, a spokeswoman for the National Farmers' Federation. "Most farmers would have got some rain prior to Christmas but the benefit of that will have been eroded with this heat wave. Water's an issue." The Bureau of Meteorology put the hot spell down to a combination of hot air being blown from the northwest toward the densely populated southeast, where a "blocking" high off the coast was stopping cooler winds from moving it on. The bureau's "extreme heatwave" warning, its highest category, includes Sydney for the next three days. Sydney's inland suburbs were forecast to swelter in 40C (104F) heat. Almost the entire state of New South Wales had a "high" or "very high" fire danger, according to the rural fire service. A "low-intensity heatwave" in neighbouring Victoria state was expected to spread south almost as far as the second city Melbourne. Health authorities have issued warnings for pregnant women, babies, people aged over 65 and people with lung conditions since the heat eroded air quality. The town recognised by Australians as their hottest, Marble Bar, with a population 174, had a reprieve on Friday from its 49.1C (120.4F) record a day earlier, enjoying a relatively comfortable 41.1C (106F) by midday. "You really don't want to be out digging holes in the middle of the ground, or chasing gold," Lang Coppin, a former cattle rancher and gold prospector, told Reuters from Marble Bar. "What we've always done is do the physical work in the morning and then knock off. Be like the kangaroos and get under the tree."

Australia swelters through heatwave in hottest December ever

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