With temperatures rising beyond 45C over the weekend, Northern India—including the nation's capital, Delhi—is suffering from a severe heatwave.

With a temperature of 47.8C on Sunday, the Delhi district of Najafgarh registered the highest national temperature of the season.

According to the forecast service, this week's heat wave is probably going to persist.

India is experiencing intense heatwaves in conjunction with its general election, the results of which will be announced on June 4.

Indian summers, which extend from March to September, are usually hot and humid.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has said the country is likely to experience longer and more intense heatwaves this year.

On Saturday, temperatures crossed 45C in 10 locations in the National Capital Region (NCR), which encompasses Delhi and some districts from the neighbouring states of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Rajasthan.

The IMD has predicted that maximum temperatures in Delhi and other northern cities are likely to hover around 45-46C over Monday and Tuesday.

It has also predicted a fresh heat spell over parts of western and central India over the next few days.

Many Indian states, reeling under the heatwave, are also going to the polls this week.

On Monday, millions of voters will cast their votes in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar while Delhi will vote on 25 May.

The elections are being held in seven phases from 19 April to 1 June.

Many voters have expressed discomfort stepping out in the extreme heat. They say it's difficult standing in queues, especially for senior citizens.

India's election authorities have extended voting timings and have asked people to protect themselves against the heat while going to vote.

Summers have always been gruelling in many parts of India - especially in the northern and central regions.

While some people use air-conditioners and water coolers to keep themselves cool, others, especially in the more distant towns, have devised their own ways of coping with the heat - from keeping water cool in earthen jugs to taking drinks made with raw mango pulp to ward off heat strokes.