Uzbekistan: Uzbekistan issues heat warnings as temperatures near 48C during 'Chilla'.

TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN - JULY 15, 2026: During "Chilla," the 40 hottest days of the year in Uzbekistan, extreme heat has intensified across the country, prompting authorities to introduce precautionary measures affecting healthcare, energy, transportation and education as temperatures in some areas are forecast to reach 46-48C (115-118F). In the Central Asian country, where more than half of the land consists of deserts and steppes, the annual Chilla period begins in the final five days of June and continues through July before ending in the first five days of August. The prolonged heatwave has made daily life increasingly difficult. According to the Uzbekistan Hydrometeorological Center, daytime temperatures are expected to reach 41-43C (106-109F) across much of the country this week, rising to 44-46C (111-115F) in northern, southern and desert regions. In some desert areas, temperatures could climb as high as 46-48C (115-118F) by midweek, around 3 to 6 degrees Celsius above seasonal averages. Nighttime temperatures are forecast to remain between 23C and 33C (73-91F), offering little relief from the heat, while strong winds and dust storms are also expected in some regions. The Health Ministry has also issued public advice on nutrition and daily routines during the hot weather. Officials recommended eating vegetable salads, light soups, yogurt, ayran, cheese, eggs, chicken, fish and fruit instead of heavy, fatty, fried or spicy foods. The ministry said consuming smaller portions spread over five or six meals a day would be healthier in extreme heat. Residents were also urged to avoid direct sunlight, particularly between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., seek shaded areas when outdoors, wear hats and drink water every 15 to 20 minutes to prevent dehydration.