SHANGHAI, China – At least 10 people have died of heatstroke during a record heat wave in Shanghai, Chinese media reported early Thursday.

Temperatures hit 40.8 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, breaking a record of 40.6 in the city set just under two weeks ago.

The authorities issued a sixth high temperature alert on Thursday, predicting another day with temperatures of around 40 degrees, the Shanghai Daily newspaper reported.

Wednesday marked the first time in history the city had seen two consecutive days of temperatures over 40 degrees, the newspaper reported.

Forecasters said the heat wave could continue until the weekend, the reports said.

Other areas of China have also been affected by the hot weather, with deaths reported in Hunan province and Chongqing municipality, said state news agency Xinhua.

China’s financial and commercial hub, Shanghai, was struck by a strong heat wave on Wednesday. At least 10 people died as a result of the heat wave. on Wednesday. The China Meteorological Administration (CMA) issued a level two emergency response for the first time after temperature soared to record highs. The met department also warned that the temperatures could hit the 41 degree Celsius mark on Wednesday.

Sources reveal, experts are blaming subtropical high pressure system as a possible cause for the sudden rise in temperature. Tourists are advised to stay inside their hotel rooms till dusk. Till now 10 people have lost their lives in the heat wave.

It is better to avoid travelling to eastern and central provinces of China as the met department says the temperature can in such places.
Pictures showing people taking shelter in air-conditioned shops or subways, and spending more time in swimming pools are floating on the web. A video footage of a slice of pork cooked through in 10 minutes on outdoor stone slab has gone viral.