Iraqi cities brace for searing heat as dust storms sweep Duhok, Basra, and Erbil

The Iraqi Meteorological Organization and Seismology issued weather forecasts on Friday predicting severe dust storms and elevated temperatures across the country beginning Saturday. Saturday brings dust storms with regional temperature variations reaching 42 degrees Celsius in Duhok and Sulaimani, 43 degrees in Erbil, 47 degrees in Wasit and Babylon, and 50 degrees in Basra. Clear conditions return Sunday with consistent temperatures, though northwest winds strengthen in eastern central and southern areas and may generate additional dust storms. Monday maintains clear skies with occasional clouds appearing in the eastern northern region while temperatures remain stable and moderate northwest winds affect eastern portions of central and southern zones. Tuesday presents clear weather with northern regional clouds and an overall rise in temperatures throughout the country.