India Heat Wave Is So Bad It's Melting The Roads

Forget frying an egg on the sidewalk. A heat wave that has left more than a thousand people dead in India started melting roads in Delhi earlier this week. Soaring temperatures have been plaguing the country since April, but there could be relief in sight.

The heat wave has claimed more than 1,400 lives, mostly in the southern states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. An average day has boasted a high of 107 degrees Fahrenheit, with temperatures peaking at 122 degrees. Still, the monsoon season is expected next week, giving the people a much-needed respite from stifling temperatures that have disrupted their jobs, activities, and even their infrastructure.

Officials have warned that the scorching heat is expected to last another week, with the welcome monsoon season on the horizon. On Wednesday, a light shower in Hyderabad gave a glimpse of hope for residents.

In Delhi, where photos show that the roads have begun to melt, temperatures could remain up to 117 degrees, according to Gizmodo. In Delhi and across the country, people have been warned to stay hydrated and remain in doors as much as possible during peak temperatures.

Pictures of roads melting are mesmerizing and horrifying reminders of the deadly heat wave's impact.

Low-income people and the elderly have been hit the hardest by the heat wave, as people desperately balance trying to provide for their families and staying out of the oppressive temperatures. Water camps have been set up for people to refill plastic cups for free.

A hospital attendant who goes by the name Venkateshwarlu works at the Lalitha Super Specialty Hospital in Andhra Pradesh. The attendant told The Wall Street Journal that this year's wave has led to spikes in the number of people seeking medical attention.

The number of people admitted has gone up this year from previous years. Most of those admitted are laborers, old men and middle-aged women.

Images: Video/Hindustan Times