Iraq declares holiday as mercury soars

BAGHDAD: A public holiday was declared Monday for Baghdad and southern Iraq as the mercury hit 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) at the start of the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.

A parliamentary official said the holiday for public sector workers had been declared for Baghdad, Diyala province in central Iraq, and all of the south of the country, "because of the increased temperature." It is the first time Iraq has taken such a step, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Meteorological Office chief Ali Karim said the temperature hit 50 degrees Celsius in Baghdad and southern Iraq on Monday, and "will be higher tomorrow and the day after" but he did not give specific estimates.