So hot, kindergartens are closing: Central Asia temperatures reach 46 degrees

Central Asian nations are grappling with severe heatwaves, with temperatures soaring to as high as 46 degrees Celsius in some regions. Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are particularly affected, prompting authorities to take measures to protect public health.

In Uzbekistan, kindergartens in several regions, including the capital Tashkent and southern provinces, have been closed. These closures aim to minimize health risks for children during the peak heat. The decision to reopen these facilities is contingent on a drop in temperature, according to local officials.

Temperatures in Uzbekistan have consistently hovered between 41-43 degrees Celsius since July 13, with desert areas and northern and southern regions reaching 44-46 degrees. This is a significant deviation from the usual July climate, where maximum temperatures typically range from 35-37 degrees Celsius, or 38-40 degrees in southern and desert areas. The current heatwave represents an increase of approximately 5-8 degrees above the norm.

Kazakhstan is also experiencing intense heat, with southern and eastern regions forecasting temperatures between 40-45 degrees Celsius. The capital, Astana, has seen early July temperatures exceed 35 degrees Celsius, leading authorities to issue warnings and advise residents to stay indoors. Cities are attempting to mitigate the effects of the heat by increasing the frequency of watering streets and green spaces. Turkmenistan and other desert areas in Central Asia are also reporting temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius due to hot air masses from the south.