Tengrinews.kz – Kazhydromet has issued a warning for residents of Astana and Almaty.
“On May 13, 2025, unfavorable meteorological conditions for air pollution are expected in the cities of Kokshetau, Almaty, and Astana,” the statement says.
Unfavorable meteorological conditions refer to a combination of short-term weather factors (calm, light wind, fog, temperature inversion) that contribute to the accumulation of harmful (polluting) substances in the lower atmospheric layer.
Inversion is a weather phenomenon where warm air lies above cold air, effectively trapping it. Normally, the warmer air near the ground rises and disperses pollutants. But during an inversion, the cold air gets "locked" below, along with exhaust fumes, dust, and smoke. As a result, pollution accumulates near the surface, especially in urban areas.
Weather in Astana
Partly cloudy, no precipitation. Wind: 3–8 m/s. Temperature: +14…+16°C at night, +28…+30°C during the day.
Weather in Almaty
Partly cloudy, no precipitation. Southwest wind: 3–8 m/s. Temperature: +13…+15°C at night, +27…+29°C during the day.
3-day forecast for Kazakhstan
From May 15, extreme heat is expected in the south and central regions of Kazakhstan, with temperatures rising to 35–44°C, caused by a mass of warm air moving in from Iran. In the Akmola region, temperatures will reach 30–35°C.
Meanwhile, in the west and north of the country, meteorologists forecast rain, thunderstorms, and occasional hail due to the influence of a cyclone and frontal systems.