A weather station in southern Iran reported a heat index of 82.2 °C (180 °F). If confirmed, this would be the highest ever recorded on Earth, according to Arab media.
Extreme numbers were recorded at the airport’s weather station, with a temperature of 38.9°C (102°F) and relative humidity of 85% resulting in an unprecedented heat index value. However, Colin McCarthy expressed some scepticism, noting that other weather stations in the region had reported much lower dew points, mostly below 30°C.
The weather station in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, which currently holds the world record for dew point at 35°C (95°F), recorded a dew point of 33.9°C (93°F) in recent days. The heat index, also known as “feels like” temperature, combines air temperature and humidity to assess how hot it actually feels to the human body.
Scientists warned that such extreme heat events were likely to become more frequent and intense due to global warming. Iran’s Meteorological Organisation expects a gradual rise in temperature starting from August 31.
Kobra Rafiei, a meteorologist at the organisation, also noted that Sistan and Baluchestan province in southern Iran would see rain and strong winds over the weekend. The forecast follows a period of intense heatwaves across much of the Middle East, with some regions reportedly experiencing extreme heat.
Authorities in Iran and neighbouring countries issued heat warnings and urged residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
