Iraq's Maysan governor declares Tuesday public holiday over extreme heat

MAYSAN, Iraq — The governor of Iraq's Maysan province, Habib Zahir al-Fartusi, has declared Tuesday a non-working day for all government offices across the province, citing an ongoing heat wave. The decision applies to staff at official departments, who will not be required to report for duty on Tuesday. Provincial authorities said the measure was taken in response to temperatures that have remained above seasonal averages in Maysan in recent days. Officials warned residents to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and to take necessary precautions. The governor's office said additional measures could be introduced if extreme heat conditions persist. Officials added that the holiday order could be reassessed to ensure that public services in the province continue without disruption. No further details on the length of the heat wave or expected temperature changes were immediately available.