Iraq weather agency warns of rising humidity, weakening northwesterly winds in southern governorates

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Meteorological and Seismic Monitoring Board said surface humidity is rising across southern cities, with notable increases recorded in coastal areas of Basra and parts of Maysan, Dhi Qar and Wasit. The agency said the change comes as the season's hot low-pressure system weakens toward the end of summer. According to the forecast division, lower wind speeds and shifting directions have allowed moist air from the Gulf to push inland toward the south. Forecasters said conditions are expected to continue through the weekend, with light, variable winds persisting across the region. The board warned that humidity would remain elevated overnight and in the early morning hours, increasing the perceived heat. It added that winds in coastal areas would at times shift to northwesterly.