Iran Closes Offices, Banks Across Provinces Amid Severe Heatwave, Power Strain

Iran is grappling with a severe heatwave and prolonged drought that have forced authorities to close banks, government offices, and public buildings across multiple provinces to conserve energy and manage water shortages. Temperatures have soared above 50 degrees Celsius in southern regions such as Khuzestan and Abadan, with Tehran experiencing highs over 40 degrees, prompting officials to urge residents to stay indoors during peak heat. The heatwave has strained the power grid, leading to rolling blackouts and causing industrial production to drop to levels seen during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Water reservoirs are critically low, reducing water pressure in major cities including Tehran, while emergency services and select private sectors continue to operate during closures. Iranian officials, including Governor Mohammadsadeq Motamedian and President Masoud Pezeshkian, have emphasized the urgent need to reduce energy consumption and address unsustainable water use to prevent severe shortages by the end of the summer. Similar measures were implemented during a prior heatwave in 2024, highlighting the ongoing challenges Iran faces with climate extremes and resource management.