• Source:JND
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As heatwaves continue to affect several countries, a weather station near Dayrestan Airport in southern Iran has reportedly recorded an astonishing heat index of 82.2 degrees Celsius (180 degrees Fahrenheit) and a dew point of 36.1 degrees Celsius (97 degrees Fahrenheit). If confirmed, these figures would represent the highest heat index ever documented on Earth. 

The readings, reported by the Hindustan Times, were logged on Thursday with an air temperature of 38.9 degrees Celsius (102 degrees Fahrenheit) and a relative humidity of 85 per cent, according to data from the US National Weather Service.

In response to the alarming heat index figures reported in southern Iran, US-based meteorologist Colin McCarthy has called for an official investigation to verify the accuracy of the data. 

McCarthy expressed scepticism, pointing out that other weather stations in the area recorded significantly lower dew points, generally in the low 30s Celsius. He emphasised the need for an official inquiry to confirm whether these unprecedented readings are valid, sharing his concerns on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The situation is exacerbated by a historic heatwave currently gripping much of the Middle East. Meteorologist Colin McCarthy pointed out that Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, which holds the world record for the highest dew point at 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius), has recently recorded dew points as high as 93 degrees Fahrenheit (33.9 degrees Celsius).  

This ongoing extreme weather adds to the concerns over the unprecedented heat index readings reported in southern Iran. The temperature alone might not seem alarming, but with 85 per cent humidity, it creates a heat index of 82.2 degrees Celsius, reflecting how intensely hot it feels to the human body. 

In dry areas, higher temperatures are usually more bearable because lower humidity allows sweat to evaporate more easily, helping to cool the body. However, in humid conditions, sweat evaporates slowly, making the heat feel more oppressive and increasing the risk of heatstroke with prolonged exposure to a heat index between 40 and 54 degrees Celsius.

While these extreme records are still awaiting verification, a significant heatwave has been affecting much of West Asia in recent weeks, pushing temperatures in the region up to 50 degrees Celsius.