Iraqi governorates suspend or reduce working hours amid extreme heat wave

NEWSROOM — Multiple governorates across Iraq announced the suspension or reduction of official working hours for Sunday, July 27, as temperatures soar past 50 degrees Celsius in several regions, prompting health and safety concerns.

In Wasit, the governorate council ordered the closure of all government offices except for essential services. “This decision was made due to the rise in temperatures currently affecting the governorate,” the council said in a statement.

Diwaniyah authorities also declared a full-day closure for government institutions, excluding security agencies. Service and health departments will operate at 50% capacity as part of a broader effort to limit public exposure during the heat wave.

Karbala followed suit, with Dr. Qasim Ali Al-Yasari, head of the Karbala Provincial Council, confirming the suspension of official working hours.

In Babylon, officials implemented a revised work schedule rather than a full shutdown. Government office hours have been adjusted to run from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., with fieldwork split into two shifts: one from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., and a second from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. to avoid peak heat hours. The governorate also stressed the importance of fire prevention measures and activating early warning systems across departments.

“Due to the unprecedented summer temperatures and in consideration of public safety, we directed adjustments to working hours,” the Babil Governorate said, urging residents to stay indoors during extreme heat unless necessary. “We call on all beloved residents of Babil to avoid going out during extreme heat unless it’s an emergency.”

Diyala’s governor issued a directive shortening workdays throughout the week, with all government offices to close by noon.

Basra and Dhi Qar also announced full suspensions of work on Sunday, citing temperatures exceeding typical summer norms and increasing pressure on electricity infrastructure and public health systems.

The ongoing heat wave has strained power supplies and heightened health risks—particularly for outdoor laborers and those working in poorly ventilated buildings. Authorities have advised residents across the country to take precautions and remain hydrated as conditions persist.