New Delhi, May 26, IRNA - Streets wore a deserted look as a scorching sun sent day temperatures well above the normal levels in large parts of the country, leading to death of eight persons in Punjab and Haryana.

Eight persons -- six in Punjab and two in Haryana – lost their lives during past three days due to the simmering heat wave sweeping the region.
Temperature in capital Delhi settled at 43.5 degrees Celsius, three degrees above normal.

While the minimum temperature stood at 30.5 degrees, the maximum and minimum humidity levels were registered 46 and 21 per cent respectively.

The extreme heat has brought down water levels in most rivers of Punjab. Water level in Bhakhra and Pong Dams has declined by as much as 10 feet.

In Uttar Pradesh, unscheduled power cuts added to the summer woes, even though the mercury came down at various places.