Turkey's Dardanelles Strait Temporarily Closed Amid Forest Fires

Large forest fires near Canakkale prompt emergency measures affecting vital commercial traffic between Europe and Asia.

The Dardanelles Strait, a crucial maritime corridor connecting the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara, has been temporarily closed to all shipping activities due to significant forest fires spreading through north-western Turkey. This preventative measure, announced by Turkey's transport ministry, comes amid ongoing efforts to combat the wildfires that have led to the evacuation of residents in the area around Canakkale.

Firefighters in Turkey are actively working to contain the blazes, utilizing specialized firefighting aircraft, including planes and helicopters, to combat the flames from above. As the situation continues to escalate, authorities have prioritized both the safety of residents and the protection of this essential shipping route which, alongside the Bosporus Strait, handles a substantial volume of international commercial traffic between Europe and Asia.

This alarming development coincides with widespread wildfires in both Greece and Turkey, intensified by an extended spell of extreme heat that has gripped the region. The impact of climate change has become a pressing concern as such fire incidents become increasingly frequent and severe. Authorities are urging nearby communities to remain vigilant as they coordinate resources and support to mitigate future risks.