Forecasters warn of heat up to 46 degrees and mudflows

The Hydrometeorology Agency of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan warns of a sharp increase in air temperature from July 15 to 18. It is reported that in some regions, thermometers may rise to +46˚ Celsius.

According to meteorologists’ forecasts, daytime temperatures in the valley regions of the country will reach up to +41 and even +46°C.

In the foothill and mountainous areas, the air will warm up to +33 – 38°C, while in the Darvaz region of the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region, heat is expected to reach +39 – 41°C.

Experts warn that due to the intense heat, the risk of natural disasters, including mudslides, increases. In particular, in the foothill and mountainous areas of the republican subordination districts, Sogd Region, as well as in the western areas of GBAO, there is a likelihood of mudslides due to glacier melting. It is also reported that water levels in the Panj, Zeravshan, and Vakhsh rivers are expected to rise.

Doctors and health specialists recommend that citizens avoid going outside during the hottest hours, avoid direct sunlight, drink more water, and pay special attention to the condition of children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses. Abnormal temperatures increase the risk of heat stroke, sunstroke, dehydration, and exacerbation of various diseases.

The heatwave is felt not only in Tajikistan. In recent weeks, several countries in Europe have also reported abnormal heat. In some regions of Spain, Italy, Greece, and France, wildfires, droughts, and reports of dozens of fatalities have occurred due to the intense heat. Experts believe that climate change has led to an increase in the number of heatwaves in recent years.