Severe Heatwave Strikes Iraq as Residents Demand Action on Water Shortages

The ongoing heatwave in Iraq has reached alarming levels, with temperatures soaring to 51 degrees Celsius in the shade across the capital, Baghdad, and several southern provinces. This year marks one of the driest periods in Iraq since 1933, according to the Ministry of Water Resources, which reports that water reservoirs are currently only eight percent full.

The extreme weather has prompted a wave of protests, with hundreds of citizens taking to the streets in recent days to call on the government to address the critical water shortage affecting the nation. The harsh climate conditions have been exacerbated by prolonged droughts that have persisted for years, significantly impacting agriculture and livelihoods.

As temperatures reached unprecedented levels, many residents sought relief from the heat by using misting machines near shops and restaurants. Drivers faced challenges as well, with some forced to stop on the roadside to allow their vehicles to cool down.

The situation is dire, as the United Nations has identified Iraq as one of the five countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Farmers have been particularly hard hit, with many forced to abandon their fields due to insufficient water supplies.

According to the Iraqi Meteorological Organization, a slight decrease in temperatures is expected from Wednesday, providing some hope for relief. However, the underlying issue of water scarcity remains a pressing challenge that requires immediate governmental intervention and sustainable solutions.