Iraq braces for continued heat as temperatures hover near peak summer levels

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s meteorological authority reported Tuesday that a surface thermal low-pressure system remains in place, sustaining hot to very hot conditions across much of the country, particularly in central and southern governorates.

In its daily bulletin, the General Authority for Meteorology and Seismology said scattered clouds will appear over most regions, with occasional increases in cloud cover expected in the northern and eastern areas. Light and scattered rainfall is possible in some locations, though no major precipitation is forecast.

Temperatures are expected to drop slightly compared to Monday, with a decrease of about 1 to 2 degrees Celsius in several areas.

Moderate northwesterly winds are forecast, ranging from 20 to 30 kilometers per hour. Stronger gusts are likely in parts of southern Nineveh and Anbar governorates, which could stir up light to moderate dust storms extending into parts of the central region. Eastern and northeastern areas will experience calmer or lighter winds.

Horizontal visibility will generally range between 8 and 10 kilometers, but may drop to between 3 and 5 kilometers in dusty or desert areas, according to the bulletin.