'Heat Dome' In Iran Sees Heat Index Of 165 Fahrenheit, Nearing World Record

A massive heat wave in the Middle East produced near record temperatures this week in Iran and Iraq with the countries announcing public holidays to protect people from the heat. In the city of Bandar Mahshahr, Iran, the heat index -- measuring the temperature perceived by humans by factoring in humidity -- reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit Friday, nearing the highest ever recorded heat index, which was 178F (81C) in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, July 8, 2003.