Rain and heat: storm warning issued in Astana and regions of Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is bracing for a mixed weather pattern, with forecasts predicting rain and thunderstorms in the capital, Astana, and surrounding areas, accompanied by strong winds. The meteorological services have issued warnings for potential downpours and gusty conditions throughout the morning and afternoon.

Simultaneously, a significant concern remains the high to extreme fire danger across numerous regions. Intense heat, with temperatures reaching up to 35-37 degrees Celsius in some western areas, exacerbates the risk of wildfires. Regions like West Kazakhstan, Ulytau, Karaganda, Zhetysu, Aktobe, and Almaty are under particular scrutiny due to these dry and hot conditions.

Specific regional forecasts highlight varying conditions. In Astana, southwestern winds are expected to gust up to 20 meters per second. Almaty anticipates short-term rain and thunderstorms in its mountainous zones, with northeastern winds gusting up to 20 meters per second. West Kazakhstan faces extreme heat and fire danger, while Ulytau expects light rain and thunderstorms with winds shifting to the southwest.

Karaganda is forecast to experience rain, thunderstorms, hail, and squalls, with northwestern and western winds reaching 20 meters per second. Zhetysu and East Kazakhstan regions are also expecting rain and thunderstorms, with hail and squalls possible in the latter. Aktobe and Almaty regions will see light rain and thunderstorms, but also intense heat and high fire danger. The persistent extreme fire risk underscores the need for vigilance across much of the country.