Turkey Hits Record 50.5°C in the Southeast

Turkey has recorded its highest-ever temperature, with a blistering 50.5°C measured in the country’s southeast, the Ministry of Environment announced on Saturday. The record-breaking reading was captured on Friday in the town of Silopi, located in the Şırnak province, just 10 kilometres from the Iraqi and Syrian borders.

This surpasses the previous national record of 49.5°C, which was registered in August 2023.

National Heat Records and July Extremes

The ministry’s statement, published on X (formerly Twitter), also revealed that 132 weather stations across Turkey logged record high temperatures for July, indicating the widespread nature of the heatwave affecting the country.

Summary of Temperature Records

Heatwave Triggers Wildfires and Water Restrictions

Turkey is currently enduring a severe heatwave, which has fuelled wildfires across multiple provinces and placed additional strain on public infrastructure. Firefighters are battling active fires on several fronts, some of which have led to fatalities and evacuations.

Key Fire Incidents

Water Consumption Limits Introduced

The prolonged heat has also forced local authorities to impose water usage restrictions, particularly in areas experiencing tourism influxes.

• The popular resort town of Çeşme, near İzmir on Turkey’s west coast, is among the first to introduce strict water rationing.
• Other municipalities are expected to follow suit if conditions persist.

Regional Heatwave Conditions

Neighbouring Greece is similarly affected, with extreme temperatures and wildfires reported in various parts of the country. Both nations are enduring one of the harshest heatwaves in recent memory, attributed in part to climate-driven weather volatility.

As the heatwave is forecast to continue in the coming days, authorities across the region remain on high alert, urging the public to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure, and comply with emergency guidelines to prevent further tragedy.