Iraq warns of flash flood risk in five governorates as schools suspend classes

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Interior Ministry warned residents in five governorates Tuesday to take precautions amid forecasts of heavy rainfall that could trigger flash flooding, as authorities in several areas announced school suspensions.

The ministry called on residents in Wasit, Diyala, Anbar, Kirkuk and Salah Al-Din to stay away from riverbeds, valleys and low-lying areas, saying civil defense units and security formations are “fully prepared to respond to any emergency.”

Authorities in Wasit, Kirkuk, Diyala and Dhi Qar separately announced the suspension of school classes on Wednesday and Thursday due to the adverse weather conditions.