Iraq braces for countrywide heatwave, Duhok forecast to stay below 40°C

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Meteorological Authority said temperatures will begin climbing nationwide on Friday, with clear conditions prevailing across most of the country and occasional cloud cover expected in northern regions. The agency said daytime readings will edge above the previous day's levels. The rise is forecast to continue into Saturday, bringing clear, hot weather across Iraq, while Sunday's temperatures are expected to remain close to those recorded on Saturday, according to the authority. The south, central areas and parts of the north are projected to see thermometers register between 40°C and 46°C. The authority said Duhok province is the only part of the country expected to record a lower figure, with a forecast high of 39°C, placing it outside the main heat band affecting the rest of Iraq. Officials did not immediately provide a date for any expected easing of the heat.