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Professor Dr. Orhan Sen, a leading meteorology expert, has warned that temperatures will surge significantly in the coming days, with Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir expected to endure extremely hot weather.
Cautioning especially for Tuesday and Wednesday, Sen said, "Elderly people and children should stay indoors."
Temperatures have already been hovering above seasonal averages across Türkiye, causing widespread discomfort. The absence of expected rainfall has raised concerns about drought and water shortages.
Following warnings from the national meteorology service, Prof. Sen issued additional alerts, stating that the intense heat is only beginning. "Get ready for scorching conditions," he said.
Sen revealed that:
Sen emphasized, “Walk in the shade and do not go outside without sunglasses. Vulnerable groups must avoid direct sunlight during peak hours.”
Speaking about climate patterns, Sen noted, "We’ve already had two heatwaves since June. No period was below average. That’s concerning, especially due to the lack of rainfall."
In June, rainfall in Istanbul and the Marmara region decreased by 95%, dropping to 0.5 kg compared to the usual monthly average of 40 kg.
He added:
"The water situation is now critical. The dam occupancy rate in Istanbul has fallen below 57%, the second-lowest July level in the last 10 years."
Despite the heat, Ankara experienced flash floods recently—something Sen attributes to poor urban planning.
"The city’s streams have been covered by roads and buildings, so water can no longer be discharged efficiently. That’s why sudden rain leads to floods," he explained.
He warned that both Ankara and Istanbul are at risk: "With no rain for more than a month and extremely hot surface temperatures, even a short burst of rain—50 kilograms per square meter (10.2 square feet)—could trigger dangerous floods and water surges."
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