Iraq braces for extreme heat as temperatures climb above 44°C in south

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s meteorological authority has issued a weather bulletin warning of extremely hot conditions across much of the country on Sunday, with temperatures in some southern governorates expected to exceed 44°C.

“Hot to very hot during the day across all regions, especially in the central and southern provinces,” the General Authority for Meteorology and Seismology announced. “Temperatures tend to be milder at night and in the early morning hours.”

Basra is forecast to record the highest temperature at 44°C, followed by Maysan and Dhi Qar at 43°C. Baghdad and Kirkuk are expected to reach 40°C, while Erbil and Duhok will see slightly cooler conditions at 38°C and 37°C, respectively.

The bulletin noted a slight rise in temperatures across the central and northern regions, with little change expected in the south.

Northwesterly winds are expected to blow at moderate speeds between 20 and 30 km/h, occasionally becoming stronger and reaching up to 50 km/h during the day — particularly in southern and central areas, as well as parts of southern Nineveh.

The strong winds may stir localized dust, especially in desert regions. Visibility is expected to range from 8 to 10 kilometers under normal conditions, but could drop to between 4 and 6 kilometers in dusty areas. Conditions are expected to improve gradually by evening.

Looking ahead, forecasts from July 7 to 10 indicate continued sunny and stable weather across the country, with temperatures rising slightly each day and winds ranging from 10 to 20 km/h. Visibility is expected to remain between 8 and 10 kilometers, except in areas affected by dust.