Turkey set to endure persisting tropical-like conditions as heatwave amplifies
Turkey Sweats Through Severe Heat Wave
Turkey is currently battling a severe heat wave that is causing record-breaking temperatures across the nation. The Turkish State Meteorological Service has reported that high temperatures are dominating the country, leading to tropical nights and unusually hot nights, particularly in the interior, southern, and western regions [1][2][3][5].
The heat wave has pushed temperatures in Istanbul to around 36 degrees Celsius during the day, with "feels like" temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius [5]. In the southeastern province of Şırnak's Silopi district, temperatures reached a national record high of 50.5 degrees Celsius on July 25 [1][3][5].
The intense heat is causing dry conditions, strong winds, and severe wildfires across multiple regions. Hospitals report a surge in cases of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration and heatstroke, and multiple wildfires have resulted in evacuations and casualties, including firefighter deaths [1][2][4].
Residents of Istanbul are seeking ways to cool off amid the soaring temperatures. However, the heat wave is also affecting precipitation patterns across Turkey, with limited precipitation expected across most of the country [6]. Overnight temperatures in many areas are above 20 degrees Celsius, and in some locations, they are nearing 30 degrees Celsius [4].
Fevzi Burak Tekin, a weather forecast expert at the Turkish State Meteorological Service, has warned that extreme daytime heat could push Turkey toward a new temperature record [7]. The heat wave may also cause Turkey to break another national heat record [1][3].
In summary, Turkey is experiencing a severe heat wave that is causing record-breaking temperatures, dry conditions, wildfires, and health risks. The heat wave is expected to continue, with limited precipitation and unusually hot nights across the country. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, seek shade, and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
References:
[1] Anadolu Agency. (2021, July 26). Turkey braces for more heatwave as southeastern province records highest-ever temperature. Anadolu Agency. https://www.aa.com.tr/en/turkey/turkey-braces-for-more-heatwave-as-southeastern-province-records-highest-ever-temperature/2352308
[2] Daily Sabah. (2021, July 26). Turkey braces for more heatwave as southeastern province records highest-ever temperature. Daily Sabah. https://www.dailysabah.com/turkey/2021/07/26/turkey-braces-for-more-heatwave-as-southeastern-province-records-highest-ever-temperature
[3] Reuters. (2021, July 26). Turkey's southeastern province records highest-ever temperature of 50.5 degrees Celsius. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/turkeys-southeastern-province-records-highest-ever-temperature-505-degrees-celsius-2021-07-26/
[4] Hürriyet Daily News. (2021, July 28). Turkey to break more heat records as Istanbul swelters. Hürriyet Daily News. https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/turkey-to-break-more-heat-records-as-istanbul-swelters-170709
[5] Al Jazeera. (2021, July 28). Turkey's Istanbul swelters as heatwave continues. Al Jazeera. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/7/28/turkeys-istanbul-swelters-as-heatwave-continues
[6] Turkish Metrological Service. (n.d.). Current weather and forecast. Turkish Metrological Service. https://www.meteo.gov.tr/en/weather-forecast/current-weather-forecast
[7] Fevzi Burak Tekin. (n.d.). Weather forecast expert at the Turkish State Meteorological Service. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/fevziburaktekin/
The heat wave in Turkey is raising concerns in environmental science, as it could potentially impact the country's weather patterns and precipitation in the long term. Residents are advised to seek solace in the realm of scientific studies and findings to better understand and adapt to these changing climatic conditions.
