Iraq is facing another Iraq heatwave as temperatures climb toward 48°C across central and southern provinces. The Iraqi Meteorological Authority expects mostly clear skies across much of the country.
However, northern mountainous areas could see some clouds during Sunday. Despite this, officials expect intense heat to dominate the daytime hours.
The highest temperatures will arrive during the afternoon. Therefore, residents should expect the harshest conditions during peak daytime hours.
The extreme weather follows a brief decline in temperatures across several parts of Iraq. Nevertheless, temperatures have quickly risen again across much of the country.
Temperatures Reach 48°C
Basra, Maysan, Muthanna, and Dhi Qar will record the highest temperatures. Forecasters expect all four provinces to reach 48°C.
Najaf and Kirkuk will also experience severe heat, with temperatures reaching 47°C. Meanwhile, Mosul and Karbala will see highs of 46°C.
Baghdad will reach 45°C during the afternoon. Erbil will record 44°C, while Duhok and Sulaymaniyah will reach 42°C.
Consequently, residents across central and southern Iraq will face particularly difficult conditions. The northern provinces will experience slightly lower temperatures.
Despite the daytime heat, nighttime conditions should bring some relief. Temperatures will become relatively moderate after sunset.
Winds and Visibility
Moderate northwesterly winds will affect central and southern areas. Wind speeds will range between 20 and 30 kilometers per hour.
However, eastern parts of the central region could experience calmer conditions. Northern areas will instead see lighter and variable winds.
Winds in northern Iraq will range between five and 10 kilometers per hour. These conditions could contribute to haze across several areas.
Visibility will generally remain between eight and 10 kilometers. However, haze could reduce visibility across parts of central and northern Iraq.
Pollutant concentrations may also increase in some locations. Consequently, visibility could fall between five and seven kilometers.
Heat Continues Across Iraq
The Iraq heatwave highlights the severe summer conditions affecting the country. Central and southern provinces will experience the greatest temperature pressure.
Meanwhile, northern areas could receive some cloud cover without significant relief. The weather will remain predominantly dry and hot throughout the day.
Authorities have not indicated any major change in these conditions during Sunday. Therefore, residents should prepare for prolonged exposure to extreme daytime temperatures.
The Iraq heatwave will particularly affect outdoor activities and daily travel. The combination of extreme temperatures and reduced visibility could create additional challenges.
Nighttime conditions should offer limited relief after another extremely hot afternoon. However, temperatures will remain high across much of the country.
