Iraq Issues Heat Wave Warning as Temperatures Near 50°C in Eight Cities

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Meteorological and Seismic Authority warned citizens on Tuesday that a heat wave is driving temperatures close to 50 degrees Celsius across eight cities in the country's southern and central regions. The authority reported that Baghdad saw shade temperatures of 47 to 48 degrees, while Basra, Nasiriyah, Amarah, Najaf, Karbala, Kirkuk and surrounding areas recorded similar levels. Officials advised people to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, stay hydrated and urged those with chronic health conditions to take extra precautions. Nighttime temperatures may not drop below 30 degrees in the coming days, the authority said. Desert winds have also increased the risk of dust dispersal, prompting warnings for people with respiratory ailments to take precautions. The meteorological authority said it would continue monitoring conditions and issue updated advisories.