Several governorates across Iraq announced reductions or suspensions of official working hours on Sunday, July 27, due to extreme heat conditions. Temperatures soared above 50 degrees Celsius in some areas, raising serious health and safety concerns.
In Wasit, the governorate council ordered all government offices to close except for essential services. The council explained the decision stemmed from the dangerously high temperatures currently affecting the region. Diwaniyah followed with a full-day closure of government institutions, excluding security forces. Health and service departments there will operate at 50% capacity. This measure aims to reduce public exposure to the heat wave.
Karbala also took similar steps. Dr. Qasim Ali Al-Yasari, head of the Karbala Provincial Council, confirmed the suspension of official working hours to protect workers and residents. Meanwhile, Babylon chose to adjust work schedules instead of a complete shutdown. Government offices will operate from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fieldwork is divided into two shifts: 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. These shifts avoid the peak heat hours.
The Babil Governorate also emphasized fire prevention measures and the activation of early warning systems. Officials urged residents to stay indoors during the extreme heat conditions unless absolutely necessary. “We call on all beloved residents of Babil to avoid going out during extreme heat unless it’s an emergency,” the governorate stated.
Diyala’s governor issued a directive shortening work hours throughout the week, mandating government offices close by noon. Basra and Dhi Qar announced full work suspensions on Sunday. They cited temperatures well beyond usual summer levels, which have increased stress on electricity and public health systems.
The ongoing extreme heat conditions have strained power supplies and elevated health risks, especially for outdoor workers and those in poorly ventilated buildings. Authorities advise residents to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities until temperatures ease.
