Rare 48°C heatwave forces Uzbekistan to adapt to extreme temperatures
An intense heatwave with temperatures reaching up to 48°C has disrupted daily life in Uzbekistan, prompting emergency measures including transport restrictions and kindergarten closures.
A severe heatwave has hit Uzbekistan, forcing authorities and residents to adapt to extreme temperatures. Across most of the country, temperatures reached 42–45°C, while southern and desert regions saw highs of 46–48°C, putting pressure on public services.
The Ministry of Emergency Situations intensified round-the-clock duty near markets, shopping centers, and other crowded locations to prevent fires and respond quickly to emergencies. Rescue teams also used fire engines to spray water on children in residential areas during the hottest part of the day. "We are carrying out extensive awareness campaigns and informing people about important recommendations on how to protect themselves from the heat and its consequences," said Murat Sadykov, head of the ministry's Information Service. He urged people to drink plenty of water and wear light-colored, preferably white cotton clothing.
The Tashkent city administration increased water spraying on central and major roads and stepped up watering of trees and lawns. Fountains across the capital were switched to continuous operation to reduce the impact of the prolonged heat in public spaces.
The heatwave also affected transport and education. In Tashkent, trains on above-ground metro sections operated at 40 km/h instead of the usual 60 km/h until 6 p.m., as rail temperatures exceeded the standard limit of 55°C. In the southern Surkhandarya region, heavy vehicle movement was restricted on some roads from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., as road surfaces could reach 70–80°C. Kindergartens were temporarily closed in Karakalpakstan and the Khorezm region, with restrictions also in several districts of the Navoi region.
Residents and visitors were surprised by the sudden temperature spike, unusual for this time of year. "We came here for a textile exhibition and were not expecting such extreme heat," said Altyn Bakiyeva, a visitor from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. She noted the difference is noticeable and that air-conditioned taxis and cold water are the only help. Tashkent resident Odinakhon Akramova said families are changing eating habits: drinking more water, eating cold watermelons and melons, and preparing less cooked food.
The extreme conditions were expected to ease gradually later in the week.
