Iran Closes Offices Amid Severe Heat and Water Crisis

Tehran, Aug 5 (AP) - In response to intensifying summer heat and a severe water crisis overwhelming the power grid, Iranian authorities have mandated the closure of government offices and banks across much of the nation this Wednesday.

This measure, broadcasted by state television on Tuesday, marks the second occurrence of its kind this summer. The move aims to mitigate the surging demand for electricity and water. With temperatures soaring beyond 40 degrees Celsius in the capital, Tehran, officials are advising citizens to limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours and to conserve water and energy.

Iran's energy production reaches about 62,000 megawatts per hour at its peak, yet the country's needs are approximately 80,000 megawatts. As a result, Tehran and other cities experience routine two-hour power cuts every other day, with experts predicting potential increases to four-hour outages. Consequently, protesters have assembled outside the headquarters of Iran's national electricity provider, Tavanir, calling for improved grid management.

The nation's capacity to maintain and enhance its energy infrastructure has been severely hampered by years of U.S. sanctions targeting Iran's oil and banking sectors and challenges in acquiring necessary parts for grid operation and repair.

Iran's sole nuclear power facility, the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, which became operational in 2011 with Russian assistance, generates only 1,000 megawatts per hour and undergoes a two-month maintenance shutdown annually.

Southern Iran, particularly, is enduring extreme heat conditions, with Abadan recording temperatures surpassing 50 degrees Celsius on Sunday, placing it among the world's hottest locations during this summer's heat wave.

Tehran's infrastructure continues to grapple with repeated heat stress and vulnerability. The decision to shut down offices on Wednesday parallels previous similar actions, such as a one-day public holiday in July 2024 and a two-day closure in 2023.

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