Storm system to bring rain, thunder and strong winds across Iraq

BAGHDAD– A deep low-pressure system is driving unstable weather across Iraq, with forecasters warning of thunderstorms, shifting temperatures and periods of reduced visibility in the coming days.

The Meteorological Authority said skies will be partly to fully cloudy over most regions, with light to moderate rain expected in many areas and a higher chance of thunderstorms, particularly in the Kurdistan Region.

The system is forecast to extend later toward western Iraq and the northern parts of the south, where some northern areas could see heavier rainfall.

Temperatures are expected to rise slightly, by about 2 to 3 degrees Celsius, in central and southern governorates, while the north will see a slight drop. Despite the daytime uptick, conditions will remain cold in the mornings and at night, with milder temperatures during the day.

Winds will be moderate and southeasterly at 20–30 km/h, increasing at times, especially in eastern areas, where gusts may reach 50 km/h and stir up localized dust.

Horizontal visibility is expected to range from 8–10 kilometers in most regions, dropping to 4–6 kilometers in dusty zones and to 3–5 kilometers in areas affected by heavier rain.