A nationwide heatwave in India that began in mid-April had caused more 2,000 deaths by the beginning of June. And officials say a cooldown could still be several days away. High temperatures in parts of the country have reached as high as 117° F (47.2° C). Most of the deaths have been elderly people and workers who spend a lot of time outside. Hospitals have been busy, and the government has been encouraging people to stay indoors and drink plenty of water. Monsoon rains are expected, which will help to ease the scorching daytime temperatures. Monsoon season begins in India in early June, and typically lasts until September. But the southern part of the country will see the cooling effects first, and it will take several more weeks before the dry northern areas get their share.
