Türkiye braces for intense August heatwave
Türkiye is expected to experience a severe heatwave during the first week of August, with temperatures rising above seasonal averages across much of the country.
The hottest conditions are forecast in the southeastern provinces, where temperatures are expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius. In Istanbul and other coastal areas of the Marmara region, high humidity is likely to make conditions feel even hotter.
Climate scientist and meteorological engineer Hüseyin Toros of Istanbul Technical University said the period known as eyyam-ı bahur, traditionally regarded as the hottest days of summer, does not have fixed meteorological dates.
He noted that its timing and intensity vary each year.
According to Toros, the heatwave will be driven by hot air masses moving from the Arabian Peninsula and North Africa, resulting in extreme temperatures in the southeast and uncomfortable humidity levels in western coastal cities.
Long-term data from the Turkish State Meteorological Service indicate that Türkiye’s average annual temperature has risen from 12.7°C during 1970–1980 to 14.4°C between 2014 and 2025.
The country’s warmest year on record was 2024, with an average temperature of 15.3°C, while 1992 was the coldest at 11.4°C.
Toros warned that climate change is increasing the frequency, duration and intensity of heatwaves, posing growing risks to public health, water resources, agriculture, urban infrastructure and energy systems.
He also highlighted the urban heat island effect, where concrete and asphalt retain heat during the day and release it at night, keeping cities warmer than surrounding rural areas.
He urged authorities to expand green spaces, increase shaded areas and adopt urban planning measures that reduce heat buildup.
Health experts advised residents to avoid prolonged outdoor activities between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., drink plenty of water, wear light and breathable clothing, avoid direct sun exposure and schedule physical activities during the cooler morning or evening hours.
