Heat wave to persist across Iraq for up to 10 days, meteorological authority warns

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s General Authority for Meteorology and Seismology on Tuesday warned that the ongoing wave of heat and humidity is expected to continue for seven to 10 more days, with temperatures likely to soar across central and southern governorates.

Daytime highs could reach 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) in several cities during peak hours, the agency said. “Humidity will intensify the sensation of heat during the day, particularly in areas near bodies of water,” it added.

The authority described the pattern as a moderate-intensity heat wave and forecast sustained high temperatures through next week across much of the country.

Among the hottest areas on Tuesday were Basra and Maysan, where temperatures reached 50°C, followed by Diwaniyah, Najaf and Muthanna at 47°C. Baghdad, Karbala and Wasit each recorded highs of 46°C.

Winds were moderate to active in the central and southern regions, reaching speeds up to 30 kilometers per hour and stirring up scattered dust that reduced visibility.

Visibility ranged from 8 to 10 kilometers in most areas but dropped to as low as 4 kilometers in locations affected by dust waves.