Southwest China's Chongqing Municipality is enduring a new heat wave with temperatures shooting up to 40 degrees Celsius.

Chongqing's Meteorological Department issued a red alert warning on Monday for a second day in a row. The next three days are also expected to see more hot weather with the temperature passing 35 degrees Celsius, while areas in the city's ShaPingba Valley may shoot up to 40. A top forest alert has also been issued for the area.

Despite the scorching weather, animals in the local zoo are fed with frozen fruits and frequent cold showers to keep cool. Authorities are warning citizens to avoid outdoor activities in the afternoon. It also said outdoor workers should take measures to protect themselves from the heat and to shorten working hours.

Southwest China's Chongqing Municipality is enduring a new heat wave with temperatures shooting up to 40 degrees Celsius. [Xinhua]