Kazakhstan braces for 40°C heatwave at start of August

Kazakhstan is set to enter August under intense heat, with temperatures forecast to reach as high as 40 degrees Celsius in parts of the country over the first three days of the month, meteorologists said.

According to forecasts cited by Orda.kz, hot conditions will persist nationwide from August 1 to 3, although weather patterns are expected to remain unstable. Localised and short-lived rainfall is forecast across much of the country, with heavier downpours likely in northern and central regions.

Forecasters also warned of possible hail and strong, gusty winds in those areas.

The highest temperatures are expected in southern, southeastern, eastern and central regions, where daytime highs could reach between 35°C and 40°C.

In western Kazakhstan, temperatures are projected to ease slightly from August 1, but will remain above seasonal averages.

By Tamilla Hasanova