Thermal depression causes extreme May heat in Uzbekistan

This week, Uzbekistan is experiencing unusual heat for the month of May — temperatures in some regions are reaching up to 45°C, reported Podrobno.uz. This is not just a short-term weather event: meteorologists and climatologists are observing a rare phenomenon for spring known as a thermal depression. Until now, it had only been recorded in summer.

A thermal depression is a synoptic process in which intense surface heating over a certain area leads to the formation of a low-pressure atmospheric zone. This typically occurs in desert and semi-desert regions during summer. As a result, hotter and drier air is pulled in from the south and southwest, further intensifying the heat and creating a closed weather cycle.

Climatologist Erkin Abdulakhatov noted that in the past 65 years, such an active thermal depression has never been recorded in May in Uzbekistan. It’s as if summer has arrived early — and in a much more aggressive form.

According to him, this heat poses a serious threat to agriculture. Crops in valley regions — especially young cotton, vegetables, and melons — are particularly vulnerable. He recommends urgent irrigation, or the plants may not survive the heat shock. Fruit trees may also suffer disrupted vegetation cycles.

Demand for electricity is rising sharply, as air conditioners, fans, and refrigerators run at full capacity. This puts pressure on the energy system, especially during workdays when consumption is already high.

Temperatures above 40°C are dangerous for health — especially for the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses. Medical professionals warn of risks such as heatstroke, dehydration, and cardiovascular complications.

In desert regions like Karakalpakstan, Navoi, and Bukhara, the combination of heat and dryness may lead to dust rising and the formation of dust storms. Sharp spikes in air pollution are expected, especially in urban areas.

The anomaly is attributed to several factors, including global warming — the average temperature in Central Asia has increased by more than 1.5°C over the past 30 years — and a stable anticyclone over the southeast, which is blocking the movement of cooler air. Additionally, hot air from Turkmenistan and Iran is contributing to the extreme conditions.

According to Uzhydromet, a cold front from the northwest is expected to arrive on the weekend, May 17–18, slightly lowering temperatures. However, they will still remain above the seasonal average. Short but strong winds and dust storms may also occur during this transition.

The May 2025 heatwave is not a temporary anomaly, but a result of global climate shifts and local atmospheric processes. It is a warning sign that calls for personal caution and a strategic approach to environmental policy, water resources, and sustainable agriculture. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!