Wildfires Disrupt Key Shipping Route in Turkey Amid Escalating Heat

As wildfires spread near Canakkale, Turkey's transport ministry has announced the closure of the Dardanelles Strait, a critical maritime shipping route, while evacuation efforts and firefighting measures are underway.

The Dardanelles Strait, an essential channel for international maritime trade, has been temporarily closed due to severe forest fires engulfing north-western Turkey. According to the country’s transport ministry, this precautionary measure was implemented to ensure safety as the blazes approached the city of Canakkale, prompting the evacuation of local residents.

Firefighters are actively engaged in battle against the flames, utilizing specialized planes and helicopters for aerial interventions. The Dardanelles Strait serves as a crucial link between the Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmara, combining with the Bosporus Strait to facilitate significant maritime traffic between Europe and Asia.

The ongoing wildfires are part of a broader trend, as extreme heat persists in both Greece and Turkey, exacerbating the situation and posing challenges to natural and human environments alike.