A blistering heat wave has killed at least 14 people, including 10 election officials, in eastern India with temperatures soaring up to 49.9 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) in parts of the country this week, officials said Friday.
The weeklong heat wave has forced schools to close at several places and raised the risk of heatstroke for outdoor laborers.
A statement by the Bihar state government said 14 people have died in the state, including five in Bhojpur and three in Rohtas districts, with day temperatures rising to 44 Celsius (111 Fahrenheit).
The heat wave came as hundreds of millions of Indians have been voting in a 6-week long general election, increasing health risks as they waited in long lines to cast their ballots.
The seventh and final round of voting will be held on Saturday.
Persons:
Chanakyapuri
Organizations:
Vivekananda
Locations:
New Delhi, India, Bihar, Bhojpur, Rohtas