Driest July in the Marmara region in the last 65 years! It rained only 1 day in Istanbul

In July 2025, Turkey struggled with a severe drought. According to data from the General Directorate of Meteorology, precipitation across the country decreased by 71 percent compared to the same period last year. This situation became particularly pronounced in the Marmara region, which saw its lowest precipitation level in the last 65 years.

PRECIPITATION AT CRITICAL LEVELS IN THE MARMARA REGION

Precipitation in the Marmara region decreased by 95 percent compared to the long-term average. While only one day of precipitation was recorded in Istanbul in July, no rain was seen in Yalova at all. The number of rainy days remained quite limited in provinces such as Bilecik, Bursa, and Sakarya.

DECLINE IN PRECIPITATION ACROSS TURKEY

While the amount of precipitation per square meter in July last year was 32.7 kilograms, this figure fell to 9.6 kilograms in the same period this year. This indicates a 39 percent decrease compared to the long-term average and a 71 percent decrease compared to last year.

REGIONS WHERE AN INCREASE IN PRECIPITATION WAS OBSERVED

During this period when the drought was effective, precipitation in some provinces such as Mersin, Karaman, and Tunceli exceeded normal levels, showing an increase of over 100 percent. In the Eastern Black Sea region, the number of rainy days in cities such as Trabzon, Rize, and Erzurum varied between 10 and 15 days.

WATER RESOURCES UNDER THREAT

Experts state that the drought experienced in many regions, especially in Marmara, threatens water resources. The decline in dam occupancy rates is creating negative effects on agricultural production and drinking water sources. For this reason, it is emphasized that caution should be exercised regarding water conservation.

News Source: 12punto