Iraq to face new heat wave from Saturday, forecaster warns

BAGHDAD, Iraq — A new heat wave is forecast to grip Iraq from Saturday, with temperatures expected to climb sharply across the country, meteorologist Sadek Atia said. The rise will be driven by a deepening tropical upper-atmosphere high-pressure system combined with seasonal thermal low pressure near the surface, he added. Atia said temperatures in southern cities are expected to exceed 50 degrees Celsius, while other regions will see readings near that level. Skies are forecast to remain mostly clear and sunny, with partial cloud cover in some areas. The meteorologist warned that temperatures will peak during midday and afternoon hours, raising the risk of heat stress. He advised the public to avoid direct sunlight between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., drink sufficient water and fluids, and refrain from leaving children and elderly people inside parked vehicles. Drivers were also warned against storing flammable materials in their vehicles.