Shanghai Expo braces for heat wave

Surging temperatures failed to deter visitors as the Expo site welcomed some 440,800 visitors by 7pm on July 19.

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The hot weather is expected to continue throughout this week with temperatures climbing above 35 degrees Celsius, according to the city's weather bureau.

Among Monday's visitors, 140,300 were group tourists, and 61,400 visitors used free tickets Shanghai government distributed to local residents.

A total of 62, 314 tickets were sold on site, with 22,072 evening admissions.

Houtan, Shangnan Road, Changqing Road, and Gaoke Road W. gates received 83,000, 76,000, 64,000, and 61,000 visitors respectively.

By 5pm, 78 shows were staged within the site, attracting 57,900 spectators.

The city would experience hot and sunny days with the end of the plum rain season and maximum temperatures would range between 34 and 36 degrees, forecasters said.

Some 150,000 group visitors will visit on July 20. Visitors are advised to take measures against heat stroke, drink more fluid, and avoid walking for long under the scorching sun.