Weekend Weather Turns Severe in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is set to experience turbulent weather this weekend, with the national meteorological service forecasting widespread rain, thunderstorms, intense heat, and heightened fire risks across much of the country.

On July 26, heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to blanket the northwest, north, and central regions, accompanied by strong winds and the potential for hail, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

The southern, eastern, and southeastern parts of the country are likely to remain dry.

Dust storms are forecast in the southwest and southern regions, while fog may reduce visibility in the northwest during nighttime and early morning hours.

Temperatures are set to soar in several areas, including the Zhetysu, Almaty, Zhambyl, Turkistan, Abai, and East Kazakhstan regions. The most extreme heat is predicted for parts of Zhetysu, northern and western Almaty, and southern Abai.

In addition to severe weather, authorities are warning of a widespread risk of wildfires. High fire hazards are in place for East Kazakhstan, Abai, western and eastern Kostanay, western North Kazakhstan, eastern Akmola, and large portions of Pavlodar and Aktobe regions.

An extreme fire hazard alert has been issued for a broader stretch, including Mangystau, Kyzylorda, Turkistan, Almaty, Zhambyl, Karaganda, Zhetysu, Ulytau, Atyrau, Aktobe, West Kazakhstan, and several areas within Kostanay, Akmola, Abai, and East Kazakhstan.