Cairo: A severe heat wave hit eight Arab countries on Monday, with meteorological agencies warning that extreme temperatures, high humidity, and wildfires would continue through the weekend, with the heat expected to subside by Friday or Saturday.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Egyptian Meteorological Authority reported that Egypt is experiencing "extremely hot weather across most regions," with active winds in the south, potentially stirring sand and dust in parts of central and southern Sinai and the Red Sea governorate. Residents have been advised to drink cold fluids, particularly water, and to avoid direct sunlight. Temperatures in Greater Cairo are expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), with a heat index of 43°C (109°F). In the Upper Egypt provinces, temperatures may rise to 46°C (115°F) in the shade, with a heat index of 47°C (116°F). The heat wave in Egypt has been attributed to the deepening seasonal Indian monsoon low and the Sudan low, pushing hot air masses from the Arabian Peninsula and North Africa toward Egypt. A gradual drop in temperatures is anticipated from Saturday.
In Iraq, the Iraqi Meteorological Organization forecasted dust storms and temperatures reaching 49 to 50°C (120 to 122°F) on Tuesday in nine provinces, including Muthanna, Basra, and Karbala, as reported by the state news agency INA. On Monday, temperatures were expected to hit 50°C (122°F) in Baghdad, Babil, Karbala, Najaf, and Dhi Qar; 51°C (124°F) in Muthanna; and 47°C (117°F) in Basra.
Jordan's Meteorological Department indicated that the kingdom remained hot and dusty on Monday, with hot weather in the highlands and extreme heat in other regions, as noted by the state news agency Petra.
The Syrian Meteorological Directorate predicted that extreme heat would persist in most areas on Tuesday and Wednesday. It advised against starting fires in agricultural areas, recommended avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours, and advised storing flammable materials away from direct sunlight.
In Lebanon, the Lebanon Weather Service warned of hot, humid air masses affecting the country until at least Friday, as reported by the state news agency NNA. Temperatures in mountainous and inland areas are expected to be about 10°C (18°F) higher than seasonal averages over the next two days. High humidity levels along the coast will contribute to the heat. The Beirut Fire Department urged residents to follow safety instructions during the heat wave, reduce electrical loads, turn off unnecessary appliances, and remove obstructions or oil containers near generators to prevent fire hazards.
Bahrain's Meteorological Directorate stated on X that the weather would be hot and humid with some clouds.
Qatar's Meteorology Department announced on X that the country would experience hot to very hot weather with some clouds.
Kuwait's Meteorological Department warned of hot weather on X, with fog expected as well.