Temperatures in Moscow reached 91 degrees in a
heat wave that broke a 70-year-old weather record, meteorologist said.
Forecasters say the heat wave in the entire central region of Russia area will last until July 22, RIA Novosti reported Friday.
"As of 15.00 Moscow time, meteorological stations in Moscow registered 33 degrees Celsius (91 degrees F), 0.2 degrees higher than the record set on July 16, in 1938," a meteorologist said.
Saturday's traditional changing of the infantry and cavalry guard at Cathedral Square near the Kremlin will be canceled, authorities announced,
since the heat will be too intense for sentries to wear traditional early 20th century woolen parade uniforms, and the horses are in danger of
heatstroke.
In one Moscow apartment building, residents were horrified when the building's heating came on full blast as the temperature outside reached
record levels.
Authorities said a technical problem during a pressure test of the system allowed hot water into the building's radiators, RIA Novosti reported.