Clear skies, slight temperature decline forecast for most of Iraq

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Meteorological Authority forecast a slight drop in temperatures across the country over the next several days, followed by a gradual increase beginning Sunday.

In a statement issued Wednesday, the authority said Thursday’s weather will be clear across central and southern Iraq, with some clouds expected in northern areas. Northwesterly winds will be light to moderate, while temperatures will remain similar to current levels in the north and center and rise slightly in the south.

Forecast high temperatures for Thursday are expected to reach 45°C in Baghdad, Diyala, Salah Al-Din, Wasit, Karbala and Diwaniyah; 44°C in Anbar and Kirkuk; 42°C in Nineveh; 41°C in Erbil; 39°C in Sulaymaniyah; and 38°C in Duhok.

Temperatures are forecast to reach 46°C in Najaf, Muthanna, Babil and Basra, while Maysan and Dhi Qar are expected to record highs of 47°C.

The authority said Friday will be mostly clear, with some clouds in central and northern regions. Temperatures are expected to decline slightly across the country.

Saturday’s weather is forecast to remain clear nationwide, with temperatures falling slightly again compared with the previous day.

On Sunday, conditions are expected to remain clear throughout Iraq. Temperatures will rise slightly in central areas and remain near previous levels in northern and southern areas, according to the forecast.