Seasonal low keeps Iraq under intense heat, with highs reaching 48 C

BAGHDAD — Iraq will remain under the influence of the seasonal low-pressure system on Friday, bringing sunny skies and hot to very hot daytime temperatures across the country, with highs reaching 48 degrees Celsius in several southern governorates, according to the national weather forecast.

The General Authority for Meteorology and Seismic Monitoring said temperatures would remain close to Thursday’s levels nationwide, with the hottest conditions expected around midday. Cooler weather is forecast only during the early morning and nighttime hours.

Basra, Maysan and Dhi Qar governorates are expected to record the country’s highest temperatures at 48 C, while Muthanna, Najaf, Babil and Diwaniyah are forecast to reach 47 C. Baghdad, Karbala and Wasit are expected to see highs of 46 C.

In the Kurdistan Region, Erbil is forecast to reach 43 C, Sulaymaniyah and Duhok 41 C.

Northwesterly winds are expected at 10 to 20 kilometers per hour, strengthening during the afternoon in parts of central and eastern Iraq and in the eastern section of the southern region, where gusts could reach 45 kilometers per hour. The stronger winds may generate dust in desert areas and along highways.

Visibility is expected to remain generally good at 8 to 10 kilometers but could drop to between 6 and 8 kilometers in areas affected by dust.

The forecast indicates similar weather on Saturday and Sunday, with mostly sunny skies and light to moderate winds. Temperatures are expected to ease slightly on Monday before returning to levels similar to previous days on Tuesday.