Heat wave brings 40 C temps, fire risk alert

A heat wave pushed temperatures to above 40 C in some northern and central parts of China on Monday.

The China Meteorological Administration said temperatures hit 35 C in 14 provinces and municipalities, while parts of North China recorded temperatures of 41 C. The hot weather will continue until Wednesday.

The heat wave also worsened the severe drought in northern China, which has received just half of its normal rainfall since June, said Yin Xiaohui, chief forecaster at the Beijing Meteorological Center.