Heatwaves, thunderstorms and hail: storm alert issued across most of Kazakhstan

Tengrinews.kz – Kazakhstan's meteorological agency has issued a storm warning for nearly all regions of the country, with forecasts of extreme heat, thunderstorms, hail, dust storms and high fire danger in multiple areas.
According to Kazhydromet, Almaty is expected to see intense heat from July 19 to 21, with daytime temperatures reaching 35–38°C. Shymkent will face even more severe conditions, with highs of up to 41°C and an extreme fire risk warning.
In Astana, hail and thunderstorms are expected, accompanied by strong northwesterly winds gusting up to 20 m/s.
Other notable alerts include:

Atyrau region: Dust storms in the north and east, wind gusts reaching 25 m/s, and temperatures up to 39°C.
Karaganda region: Severe thunderstorms, hail, and squalls in some areas, along with heat reaching 36°C and high to extreme fire risk throughout.
Zhambyl and Turkistan regions: Temperatures could hit 42–43°C, with dust storms, thunderstorms in mountainous zones, and persistent fire danger.
East Kazakhstan and Abai regions: Expect hail, squalls and thunderstorms, with daytime heat up to 37°C and wind gusts of up to 28 m/s.
Pavlodar, Akmola, and Kostanay regions: Thunderstorms and hail with moderate to strong wind; fire risk remains high.
Kyzylorda, Mangystau, and West Kazakhstan: Intense heat ranging from 38–40°C, with extreme fire hazard warnings in place.
Jetisu and Almaty regions: Thunderstorms expected in mountain areas, along with gusty winds.

Authorities urge residents to stay indoors during peak heat hours, avoid open flames in nature, and closely monitor weather updates.