On Tuesday, August 5, the Iranian government made an important announcement through the country's state television. According to official sources, in Tehran and in 15 out of the country's 31 provinces, state institutions and banks will suspend their operations on Wednesday. It was reported that these measures were taken due to extreme heat, which led to a deterioration in water supply and an increase in electricity grid load.
However, these restrictions do not apply to all sectors. Medical institutions, private companies, and some bank branches will continue their operations as usual. This differentiated approach is aimed at maintaining the country's economic and social stability.
The abnormal heat that began in mid-July and has continued until now is expected to last at least another five days. The highest temperatures are observed in the southern regions of Iran. For example, on August 3, the air temperature in the city of Abadan exceeded +50°C. Similar heatwaves have previously led to the announcement of emergency measures in Iran — such holidays were declared in August 2023 and 2024, as well as at the end of July 2025.
The government hopes that the temporary pause in state institution operations will significantly reduce water and electricity consumption. Currently, the country produces 62,000 megawatts of electricity per hour, while during peak load times, demand reaches up to 80,000 megawatts. Due to insufficient power capacity, electricity is being cut off for an average of 2–4 hours daily in Tehran and other major cities.
This situation causes serious difficulties not only for the population but also for the industrial sectors. According to the local newspaper Shargh, many factories are without electricity four days a week. As a result, the production level in the country has dropped to the level of 2020, when the coronavirus pandemic had halted activities.
The media reports that Iran is experiencing the worst drought in recent decades. As pressure on natural resources continues to grow, Iranian authorities are forced to take swift and strict measures in response to these unusual weather conditions.
These events are encouraging the population to reconsider their lifestyle and work habits, and to use natural resources wisely. Such climate challenges are also gaining importance on a global scale.
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