Türkiye faces a sharp weather contrast this weekend as a new heat wave pushes temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in several provinces, while heavy rainfall is expected in the north.
Meteorology warns of thunderstorms in 14 provinces
The Meteorology General Directorate announced that strong thunderstorms are forecast in 14 provinces on Sunday and Monday.
Rain is expected across Yalova, Kocaeli, Bilecik, Sakarya, Bolu, Duzce, Bartin, Karabuk, Kastamonu, Samsun, Ordu, Giresun, Trabzon, and Rize on Sunday.
On Monday, storms will continue in Samsun, Duzce, Amasya, Tokat, Ordu, Giresun, Trabzon, Rize, and Artvin. Authorities warned of flash floods, lightning, local hail, and travel disruptions.
Much of the country will face scorching conditions.
Meteorology engineer Adil Tek told Hurriyet that Friday will bring “a new heat wave,” with Istanbul climbing to 35–37°C. He added, “It will not reach the extreme levels we saw in July, and by Saturday the temperature will drop to around 28–29°C.”
Western provinces will endure the highest temperatures.
East Thrace will reach 40°C, while Izmir may hit 42°C in its inland districts. Aydin, Mugla, Denizli, and Manisa will also see 40°C. In the southeast, Diyarbakir, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Sirnak, Siirt, Adiyaman, Gaziantep, Kilis, Osmaniye, and Kahramanmaras will exceed 40°C, with some cities nearing 45°C.
Humidity will add to discomfort along the Mediterranean coast. Antalya, Mersin, Adana, and Hatay will record 33–34°C, but with humidity around 60%, the heat will feel more intense.
The Meteorology Directorate’s five-day outlook shows high temperatures across the country on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, rain is expected in the eastern Marmara region and along the Black Sea coast, including Bursa, Yalova, and Kocaeli. By Monday, showers will continue in eastern Black Sea provinces.
Despite widespread rain in the north, no relief is expected in the drought-stricken Aegean. Experts noted that Izmir and nearby provinces will continue to face water shortages as August ends with rainfall levels far below seasonal averages.
Key forecasts for coming days:
Authorities advised residents to avoid midday sun, drink water frequently, and take extra care of children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses during the heat wave.