Thunderstorms and rain forecast for Sunday as temperatures fall nationwide

BAGHDAD — Thunderstorms and light rain are expected across northern Iraq, including Erbil, on Sunday as temperatures fall nationwide, the General Authority for Meteorology and Seismic Monitoring said.

Central and southern regions will see clear skies with some cloud cover, while the north faces cloudy conditions and scattered light showers with thunder. Temperatures will be lower than Saturday across the country, with hot daytime conditions easing into the evening and overnight.

Northwesterly winds of 20 to 30 km/h are expected, with stronger afternoon gusts capable of raising dust in desert areas. Visibility will range from 8 to 10 kilometers generally, falling to 5 to 7 kilometers in dust-affected areas.

The outlook through Wednesday is largely settled. Monday brings sunny conditions with some southern cloud cover and light to moderate northwesterly winds, with temperatures close to Sunday’s levels. Tuesday sees clear skies nationwide with temperatures rising slightly in central, southern and northern areas. Wednesday continues the sunny pattern with temperatures edging higher.

The forecast comes as Iraq enters summer, when southern governorates regularly see temperatures above 45°C and northwesterly winds bring dust storms and reduced visibility across desert regions.