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Türkiye braces for new heat wave as heavy rains threaten northern provinces

An aerial view of the area as hot weather and humidity affects Karakoy and its surrounding neighborhoods in Istanbul, Türkiye, July 19, 2024. (AA Photo)
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An aerial view of the area as hot weather and humidity affects Karakoy and its surrounding neighborhoods in Istanbul, Türkiye, July 19, 2024. (AA Photo)
By Newsroom
August 21, 2025 02:25 PM GMT+03:00

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.

Tourists seek shade from the sun as they walk through Taksim Square in Istanbul, Türkiye, June 18, 2025. (IHA Photo)
Tourists seek shade from the sun as they walk through Taksim Square in Istanbul, Türkiye, June 18, 2025. (IHA Photo)

Temperatures will exceed 40°C in west and southeast Türkiye

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.

Hot weather and humidity affects people around Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and Sultanahmet Mosque in Istanbul, Türkiye, July 19, 2024. (AA Photo)
Hot weather and humidity affects people around Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and Sultanahmet Mosque in Istanbul, Türkiye, July 19, 2024. (AA Photo)

Rain will return to Black Sea but drought continues in Aegean

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:

  • Istanbul will reach 35–37°C on Friday before dropping to 28–29°C on Saturday.
  • Trakya, Izmir, Aydin, Mugla, Denizli, and Manisa will record around 40–42°C.
  • Diyarbakir, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Sirnak, and nearby cities will see 40–45°C.
  • Antalya, Mersin, Adana, and Hatay will face 33–34°C with humidity near 60%.
  • Heavy rain and thunderstorms expected in 14 northern provinces on Sunday and Monday.
  • No rainfall is expected in the Aegean where drought conditions continue.

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.

August 21, 2025 02:25 PM GMT+03:00
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