A critical shipping route, the Dardanelles Strait in Turkey, has been temporarily closed to maritime traffic due to intense wildfires burning in the country's northwest. The Turkish transport ministry announced the closure as a precautionary measure as the blazes rapidly spread near the city of Canakkale, prompting evacuations of numerous residents.
Firefighters are battling the flames on multiple fronts, utilizing specialized firefighting aircraft and helicopters to contain the spread. The Dardanelles Strait, connecting the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara, is a vital artery for commercial shipping between Europe and Asia, alongside the Bosporus Strait.
Official data indicates that nearly 46,000 vessels transited the Dardanelles in 2024, highlighting its importance to global trade. Strong winds have exacerbated the situation, fanning the flames and aiding their spread in the hot, dry conditions. Canakkale's provincial governor stated that efforts to extinguish the fires are ongoing from both air and ground.
The main airport in Canakkale is currently closed to passenger flights, but remains operational for firefighting and search and rescue aircraft. This summer has seen hundreds of wildfires erupt across Turkey, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate their homes. In July, at least 10 forestry and rescue workers tragically lost their lives while fighting wildfires in the Eskisehir province.
Impact on Shipping Industry
The closure of the Dardanelles Strait is expected to have a significant impact on the shipping industry, potentially causing delays and disruptions to global supply chains. Alternative routes may need to be considered, adding time and cost to shipments.
Wildfires Across Southern Europe
Turkey is not alone in facing this crisis. Wildfires and extreme heat are ravaging southern Europe, including Spain and France. In Spain, lightning and wind fueled a blaze near Madrid, forcing evacuations. France is experiencing record-breaking temperatures, with residents struggling to cope. Experts attribute these escalating disasters to the effects of climate change, emphasizing the urgent need for global action.
Woman Mourns Loss
In northwestern Turkey, amidst the devastation, a woman mourns the loss of her farm animals, a poignant reminder of the human cost of these environmental disasters.