An extreme heatwave sweeping across the Middlle East is producing near-record temperatures and has sparked protests over unreliable electricity supplies.

The maximum temperature in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad has peaked at more than 40 degrees Celsius every day for more than a month, and is forecast to stay that way for the foreseeable future.

On several occasions, the mercury has soared to 50 degrees Celsius.

In the country's south west, the Mahshahr Airport recorded a 'feels like' temperature of 73 Celsius (164 Fahrenheit) last week, according to The Weather Channel.

"That was one of the most incredible temperature observations I have ever seen, and it is one of the most extreme readings ever in the world," AccuWeather meteorologist Anthony Sagliani said in a statement.

Even for a region that is accustomed to extreme heat, the conditions have proved unbearable for many.