Europe heat wave reaches Türkiye, raising temperatures, forest fire risk
A powerful heat wave sweeping across Europe has reached Türkiye, bringing soaring temperatures, heightened health concerns and an elevated risk of forest fires as much of the country braces for conditions well above seasonal norms this week.
Temperatures are forecast to climb by 5 to 7 degrees Celsius nationwide, with thermometers expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius across parts of the Marmara, Aegean, Central Anatolia and Southeastern Anatolia regions by midweek. Meteorologists warn that the unusually early heat wave could signal an even hotter summer ahead.
In Istanbul, temperatures are expected to reach 34 degrees Celsius before rising to around 35 degrees Celsius on June 30 and July 1. Northwestern provinces, including Düzce, Sakarya and Kocaeli, are forecast to see highs of 36-37 degrees Celsius, while Edirne and Kırklareli could surpass the 40 degrees Celsius mark.
The Aegean region is also expected to experience extreme heat. Temperatures in Aydın could reach 42-43 degrees Celsius, potentially breaking the province’s June temperature record. Denizli, Manisa, İzmir, northern Muğla, Balıkesir, Bursa and Çanakkale are likewise forecast to record temperatures well above seasonal averages.
