Iraq swelters under 50°C heat

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Meteorological Authority said Sunday that a persistent seasonal thermal low-pressure system is driving extreme heat and dry conditions across the country, with southern governorates recording highs of 50°C.

Basra and Maysan topped the charts at 50°C, while Baghdad, Karbala, Najaf, Diwaniyah, and Dhi Qar each reached 48°C. Northern cities also faced elevated temperatures, with Erbil hitting 46°C, Duhok 43°C, and Sulaymaniyah 42°C, where partial cloud cover raised chances of isolated showers.

The authority said the extreme temperatures are expected to continue in central and southern regions under mostly clear skies, with minor increases forecast in some areas.

Northwesterly winds between 10 and 20 km/h are expected, with occasional gusts in central and western areas stirring light to moderate dust. Visibility may fall to 3 to 5 kilometers in desert regions, though most areas will remain between 8 and 10 kilometers.

The heatwave has strained Iraq’s electricity grid and heightened health risks, particularly for outdoor workers and vulnerable residents, as power cuts continue in many cities amid soaring demand.