Iraq braces for extreme heat and dust storms with temperatures near 50°C

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Meteorological Authority forecast continued hot and dusty weather across much of the country through the weekend, with temperatures expected to approach 50°C in southern and central governorates.

In its Wednesday report, the General Authority for Meteorology and Seismology said clear skies and very hot daytime conditions will prevail, particularly in central and southern Iraq, with milder overnight temperatures in northern and western regions.

Temperatures are projected to remain consistent with recent days across most of the country, while northern areas may see a slight increase.

Moderate northwesterly winds, ranging from 20 to 30 kilometers per hour, are expected to intensify during the day in the central and southern regions as well as southern Nineveh. Gusts could reach up to 50 kilometers per hour, likely raising light to moderate dust, especially in open and desert areas.

Visibility may decline to between 3 and 5 kilometers in dusty conditions, with gradual improvement expected during evening and overnight hours.

On Thursday, temperatures are forecast to reach 48°C in Basra and Maysan, 47°C in Dhi Qar and Najaf, and 46°C in Wasit, Babil, and Muthanna. Northern governorates will be comparatively cooler, with highs of 42°C in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah, and 40°C in Dohuk.

Forecasts through Sunday indicate continued dry and hot conditions, with stable visibility ranging from 6 to 8 kilometers in most areas. Winds are expected to remain moderate, with occasional increases in southern regions.