Monday, July 7, 2025

UK holidaymakers traveling to Turkey this summer have received dire alerts as the nation struggles through intense heatwave and widespread wildfires. Soaring temperatures and the current wildfires raging throughout the nation have left tourists in grave danger, potentially threatening traveling schedules.

Reports from Turkey’s western coastline, including popular holiday destinations like Antalya and Izmir, paint a concerning picture of a rapidly worsening situation. Many holidaymakers have expressed alarm over the extreme heat, with some even sharing viral videos that highlight just how unbearable conditions have become. In one widely circulated TikTok video, an employee from Shadows restaurant and dance bar in Marmaris can be seen frying an egg directly on the pavement, a stunt that demonstrates the 42°C temperatures gripping the region.

The worker in the video claims there was “no oil” involved, just a “fresh egg,” which has left viewers in shock. One comment under the video reads: “Oh my God!” while another prospective visitor shares, “We’re coming in August, I hope it’s cooled down by then!” However, many have voiced concerns that such extreme weather poses a real danger to public health and safety.

The soaring temperatures are not just uncomfortable, but dangerous. Aemet, the Spanish meteorological authority, reported that June 2025 broke all previous temperature records, with a mean temperature of 23.6°C, surpassing the previous June records by 0.8°C. The weather is only expected to worsen in the coming weeks, with daily highs continuing to spike well above the 40°C mark, particularly in the south and southwestern regions of Turkey.

Adding to the perilous heatwave, Turkey has been battling severe wildfires that have already devastated thousands of acres of land. These blazes have ravaged the western provinces of Izmir, Bilecik, Hatay, Sakarya, and Manisa, forcing thousands of people to flee their homes. As of the latest reports, over 50,000 individuals have been evacuated from the affected regions, with firefighters tirelessly working to contain the fires. The Turkish Forestry Ministry disclosed that 263 wildfires have been fought by emergency teams in just the past three days, with many of these fires spreading rapidly due to the high heat.

Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumaklı noted that despite their best efforts, the fires continue to present significant challenges, with many areas experiencing intense flames and difficult terrain that hampers firefighting efforts. Wildfires are especially concerning in tourist hotspots like the Aegean and Mediterranean regions, where many foreign visitors, including Britons, flock for sun-soaked holidays along the coast.

Local authorities have been actively monitoring the situation, issuing safety warnings to residents and tourists alike. In addition to the direct threat of wildfires, high temperatures have also caused health concerns. Turkey’s Health Minister, Kemal Memişoğlu, confirmed that at least 46 people affected by the fires are currently receiving treatment in hospitals, while many others are being treated for heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke and dehydration.

For many UK tourists with holiday plans to Turkey, these conditions are raising serious concerns about safety. With the heat showing no signs of subsiding and the threat of fires intensifying, travellers are left wondering whether their trips will proceed as planned. UK government travel advisories have yet to issue blanket warnings, but officials are urging those with upcoming visits to monitor the situation closely.

British holidaymakers have been sharing their own experiences on social media, recounting their previous visits during similar conditions. “I went to Antalya last year at the end of July,” one traveller shared. “It was 52°C every day, and it was absolutely unbearable.” Another added, “I can’t imagine what it’s like now with the wildfires added into the mix. It’s dangerous weather.”

UK tourists planning to visit the region are being advised to stay informed about weather alerts and to take necessary precautions if they choose to proceed with their travel plans. The British Embassy in Ankara and consulates across Turkey have reiterated safety guidelines for travellers, urging them to remain in air-conditioned areas during the hottest parts of the day, hydrate regularly, and avoid outdoor activities in the heat.

Moreover, those heading to the areas most affected by the wildfires are being advised to consider postponing their trips or re-routing to other parts of Turkey where conditions are safer. In many cases, travellers are encouraged to cancel bookings in affected regions until the threat of wildfires has passed. For those already in Turkey, the government is advising they follow local safety protocols, avoid areas near active fires, and heed evacuation orders when issued.

Turkey’s battle with extreme temperatures and wildfires is part of a growing trend across the globe. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently warned that extreme heat is no longer a rare event, but the “new normal” for many countries around the world. “The planet is getting hotter and more dangerous — no country is immune,” Guterres stated in a recent address.

For Turkey, the summer of 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most difficult seasons in recent history. With temperatures soaring and the threat of wildfires still looming, the government is working to contain the situation and provide support for affected citizens and tourists alike. In the meantime, holidaymakers are urged to remain vigilant and make informed decisions about their travel plans to ensure their safety and well-being during this unprecedented heatwave.

With the continued developments in the heatwave and wildfires, most will be wishing for cooler and safer weather in the weeks ahead — not only for the people in Turkey, but also for the tourists numbering in the thousands across the globe who have come to bask in the nation’s stunning vistas and rich culture.

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