Dardanelles Strait Closed Amidst Escalating Wildfires in Turkey

Wildfires near Canakkale, Turkey, have compelled authorities to close the Dardanelles Strait, a crucial maritime route between Europe and Asia. Firefighting efforts are ongoing as the region battles a surge in wildfires due to extreme heat and strong winds, impacting local communities and transportation.

Wildfires in north-western Turkey have led to the temporary closure of the Dardanelles Strait, a critical waterway for commercial shipping. According to the Turkish transport ministry, the decision was made as a precaution due to the rampant forest fires raging near Canakkale, resulting in the evacuation of several residents.

Firefighting teams have been mobilized to combat the blazes, employing both ground crews and aerial resources such as specialized firefighting planes and helicopters. The Dardanelles Strait connects the Aegean Sea with the Sea of Marmara and plays a significant role in international maritime trade; in 2024 alone, approximately 46,000 vessels transited through this strait.

Local officials reported that strong winds have exacerbated the wildfires, causing them to spread rapidly amid hot, dry conditions. The provincial governor of Canakkale stated that efforts to extinguish the fires are continuing vigorously.

Furthermore, Canakkale's primary airport has been closed for passenger flights, although it remains operational for firefighting efforts and search and rescue operations. This summer has seen hundreds of wildfires erupt across Turkey, prompting the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents. Tragically, earlier in July, at least ten forestry and rescue workers lost their lives while combating wildfires in the Eskisehir province.

As wildfires continue to rage in both Turkey and Greece under the stress of extreme heat, authorities are on high alert, trying to mitigate the damages to communities and crucial trade routes.