Iraq expects cooler temperatures through Ashura day

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Meteorological Organization said temperatures will drop across most of the country in the coming days, including on Ashura, observed on the 10th of Muharram. The agency said its forecast models show a decline of several degrees in many cities beginning Friday. According to the statement, the change is driven by a relative weakening of the surface low-pressure system that has dominated the country, along with periodic northwesterly winds during daytime hours. Winds are expected to ease at night. The meteorological agency said the cooler conditions would ease the intense heat seen in previous weeks, though summer weather is set to continue. Ashura, one of the most significant dates in the Islamic calendar, is observed this year with mourning rituals by Shiite Muslims in Iraq and elsewhere. No further operational details were immediately provided.