The Dardanelles Strait, a vital maritime passage between Europe and Asia, has been closed to traffic due to severe wildfires in north-western Turkey, prompting precautionary measures and evacuations.
Turkey Closes Key Waterway Amid Wildfire Crisis

Turkey Closes Key Waterway Amid Wildfire Crisis
Turkey's Dardanelles Strait temporarily closed due to raging wildfires, impacting shipping routes.
The Dardanelles Strait, crucial for international shipping, has been shut down following large-scale forest fires in north-western Turkey, as confirmed by the country's transport ministry. This action comes in response to the threats posed by the flames near the city of Canakkale, prompting local authorities to evacuate several residents.
Firefighting crews have been mobilized, utilizing specialized aircraft and helicopters in their battle to control the blazes. The Dardanelles Strait links the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara and, along with the Bosporus Strait, plays a significant role in facilitating commercial shipping between Europe and Asia.
The ongoing wildfire issue isn't unique to Turkey; Greece is also facing similar challenges as extreme heat waves persist across the region. As the firefighting efforts continue, the implications for maritime operations remain a point of concern for both nations and the shipping industry as a whole.
Firefighting crews have been mobilized, utilizing specialized aircraft and helicopters in their battle to control the blazes. The Dardanelles Strait links the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara and, along with the Bosporus Strait, plays a significant role in facilitating commercial shipping between Europe and Asia.
The ongoing wildfire issue isn't unique to Turkey; Greece is also facing similar challenges as extreme heat waves persist across the region. As the firefighting efforts continue, the implications for maritime operations remain a point of concern for both nations and the shipping industry as a whole.