Turkey has recorded its highest temperature ever, 50.5°C, in the southeastern town of Silopi. This place is nearest to the borders with Iraq and Syria. The reading, confirmed by the Environment Ministry, broke the previous record of 49.5°C set in August 2023.
Heatwave Grips the Country
This record temperature came amid a severe heatwave sweeping across Turkey and southeastern Europe. The heatwave began on Monday and is expected to continue for several more days.
According to Turkey’s Environment Ministry, 132 weather stations reported record July temperatures this week.
According to Turkey’s meteorological service, temperatures are running up to 12°C above seasonal averages.
Health Crisis and Heat-Related Illnesses
Hospitals across Turkey are reporting a rise in dehydration, heatstroke, and foodborne illnesses, especially in vulnerable populations. The health crisis has escalated quickly as temperatures remain dangerously high.
Wildfires Rage Across the Country
The extreme heat, combined with strong winds and dry conditions, has triggered dozens of wildfires.
In Antalya, fires came dangerously close to high-rise buildings, forcing evacuations in both the city center and the Aksu district. Antalya also saw a record 46.1°C—its hottest July day since 1930.
Fires have also erupted in Karabuk, Sakarya, Bilecik, and Eskisehir. Tragedy struck in Eskisehir, where 13 firefighters and forest workers lost their lives on Wednesday.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called the situation a “truly great disaster.” He stated that 25,000 personnel, including 27 planes, 105 helicopters, and 6,000 ground vehicles, are battling the fires.
Eastern Mediterranean Feels the Heat
Worth mentioning, Turkey is not alone. The eastern Mediterranean is experiencing similar extreme conditions.
In Greece, temperatures surpassed 45°C. Fires are burning in Athens, Crete, Euboea, and Kythera.
The Greek government requested EU support and shut down the Acropolis from midday to 5 p.m. to protect tourists from heat exposure.
Climate Signals Are Getting Louder
The unprecedented heat is not just uncomfortable—it’s deadly. Climate scientists have warned that rising global temperatures will continue to increase the frequency and intensity of such extreme events. “What was once considered rare is fast becoming the new normal”.
This new temperature milestone should not just make headlines—it must lead to urgent action:
• Early warning systems must be enhanced to protect vulnerable communities from heat-related hazards.
• Wildfire preparedness must be a national priority as climate conditions become more volatile.
• Sustainable water management is essential, particularly in arid and semi-arid zones.
• And above all, climate mitigation—reducing emissions and investing in renewable energy—is the only long-term solution to stop records like this from being broken year after year.
Turkey Hits Record-Breaking 50.5°C – A Climate Wake-Up Call
