Tunisia heatwave causes power cuts, water disruptions, health strain

Tunisia is facing a severe heatwave, with temperatures reaching 49.8°C in Kairouan on August 27, close to the national record. The heat has driven record electricity demand, prompting rotating power cuts by STEG. These cuts have disrupted water supplies, as electrically powered pumping stations stopped, affecting areas like Mahdia and Sfax. The heat has also strained health services, with reports of increased heat-related deaths and hospital admissions. The government has faced protests over the disruptions, and President Saied has claimed sabotage, though technical explanations exist. The underlying water crisis predates the heatwave, rooted in structural scarcity and drought.