A severe heatwave has swept across Central Asia, with temperatures exceeding 40C in several countries and prompting authorities to introduce emergency measures to protect public health, infrastructure and essential services. Governments have closed kindergartens, restricted heavy vehicle traffic, increased firefighting precautions and urged residents to limit outdoor activity as forecasts suggest temperatures could climb even higher.
Uzbekistan has implemented some of the region’s strictest measures. State kindergartens were temporarily closed in Khorezm, parts of Navoiy and Bukhara regions as temperatures reached up to 45C. Authorities also restricted heavy truck traffic in Qashqadaryo and Surkhondaryo to prevent damage to overheated roads, where asphalt temperatures rose to 70–75C. Officials reported an increase in fires linked to overloaded power grids and extreme heat, while a wildfire spread across about 150 hectares in Tashkent Region. Forecasts indicate temperatures could reach 48–49C in Bukhara and up to 46C in Tashkent, potentially challenging historical records.
Kazakhstan has recorded new temperature highs, with Astana experiencing its hottest 14 July in 34 years at 38.6C. The heatwave has also increased pressure on healthcare services, with more than 33,600 ambulance calls recorded in Almaty during the first two weeks of July, including hundreds related to cardiovascular conditions and high blood pressure. Southern regions are expected to see temperatures up to 45C, while authorities have warned of heightened fire risks and potential power disruptions. In Shymkent, municipal services have been watering streets to reduce heat.
Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan have also introduced measures to mitigate the impact of the extreme weather. Tajikistan expects temperatures of up to 46C in valley areas and has mobilised volunteers to water thousands of roadside trees. In Kyrgyzstan, Osh authorities launched large-scale street watering to cool urban areas. Turkmenistan has warned that temperatures could reach 49C, with forecasts of strong winds and dust storms, while officials advised residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and follow fire safety precautions.
The heatwave has affected most of Central Asia simultaneously, prompting governments to focus on protecting vulnerable populations, reducing pressure on infrastructure and limiting wildfire risks during one of the region’s hottest periods of the year.
If the extreme temperatures continue as forecast, authorities may extend existing restrictions and introduce additional protective measures as pressure on healthcare systems, electricity networks and transport infrastructure increases.
