Heat returns with Maysan forecast at 48°C on Friday

BAGHDAD — Temperatures are climbing again after a brief dip, with Maysan at 47°C on Thursday and forecast to reach 48°C on Friday, the Iraqi Meteorological Organization and Seismology said.

Basra and Dhi Qar were at 46°C on Thursday, Najaf 45°C, Muthanna 44°C, and Baghdad, Diyala, Karbala, Wasit, Babil and Diwaniyah 43°C. Kirkuk and Anbar were at 42°C, Nineveh 41°C, Erbil 40°C, and Sulaymaniyah and Duhok 39°C.

On Friday, Basra and Dhi Qar are expected to reach 47°C, Najaf 46°C, Wasit, Babil and Muthanna 45°C, and Baghdad, Diyala, Kirkuk, Karbala and Diwaniyah 44°C.

Northwesterly winds are forecast at 20 to 30 km/h with gusts to 40 km/h in eastern parts of the centre and south, which could raise light dust in desert areas and on roads outside cities. Visibility should be 8 to 10 km, falling to 4 to 6 km where dust is blowing. Clear conditions are expected through Monday with temperatures staying elevated in the centre and south.