Turkey braces for weekend storms and intense heatwave as August arrives in the southeast
Southeastern Turkey is bracing for an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures forecast to soar above 50°C on August 2-3, 2025. This extreme heat, coupled with severe drought and wildfire risks, has necessitated serious precautions to safeguard health and safety.
The heatwave, which started in late July, is expected to persist in cities such as Diyarbakir, Mardin, and Siirt through the weekend. These regions should expect short but intense storms, likely in the afternoon and early evening hours, with risks of flash flooding in low-lying areas.
In the southeastern cities, temperatures will remain dangerously high. Antalya and Adana, for instance, will see hot and dry conditions across most of the region, with northern Adana potentially experiencing brief isolated rain. Highs will be between 31 and 34 degrees Celsius. Ankara, on the other hand, will experience ongoing thunderstorms, with afternoon downpours that may be heavy, and a high of 33 degrees Celsius. Istanbul, meanwhile, will be partly cloudy with localized showers on the Asian side, with a high of 30 degrees Celsius.
The extreme heat has already led to increased cases of dehydration, heatstroke, and foodborne diseases in Turkish hospitals. Fire officials are also battling extensive wildfires, which have been intensified by these temperatures.
To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, use air conditioning or fans, and stay in shaded or cool indoor environments when possible. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, children, and those with preexisting health conditions, should be closely monitored for signs of heat-related illnesses.
Residents are also advised to follow local advisories on water use restrictions and emergency instructions. With the dry, hot, and windy conditions, wildfire risks are high, and it is essential to be alert to these dangers.
As the heatwave persists, it is crucial that everyone takes the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of others. Stay informed, stay safe.
- The heatwave, affecting cities like Diyarbakir, Mardin, and Siirt in southeastern Turkey, is anticipated to extend through the upcoming weekend, with potential for brief yet intense storms.
- The meteorological conditions in Antalya and Adana will be hot and dry, with brief isolated showers in northern Adana, while high temperatures will range between 31 and 34 degrees Celsius.
- President Erdogan, based in Ankara, has been urged to closely monitor the ongoing heatwave, as his city is experiencing ongoing thunderstorms, with heavy afternoon downpours, and a high of 33 degrees Celsius.
- Nato allies, including Turkey, are advised to prioritize weather forecasting and disaster management strategies, given the current heatwave and subsequent risks of dehydration, heatstroke, and wildfires across Turkiye.
