Beijing, July 12 (IANS): Beijing issued this year's first heat alert on Sunday as the maximum temperature in the Chinese capital soared above 40 degrees Celsius.
Under the orange alert, which is the second highest, workers who are exposed to high temperatures must reduce their working hours, Xinhua news agency reported.
The Beijing Meteorological Service attributed the heat to lack of rain.
The intense heat has also caused heavy ozone pollution.
However, the temperature is expected to drop significantly on Wednesday, the service added.