A severe heatwave sweeping across Europe has sparked a string of wildfires in Turkey, chiefly in Izmir Province leading to widespread evacuations and travel disruptions. As these events develop, international travelers and tourism operators are weighing the risks.
Wildfires in Izmir Prompt Mass Evacuations
Late June 2025 saw catastrophic heat envelop western Turkey. Temperatures soared 5-10 °C above seasonal norms, while fierce winds intensified flames across dry woodlands.
A blaze that ignited on June 29 near Seferihisar and Menderes escalated rapidly, driven by 120 km/h gusts In response, the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) evacuated more than 50,000 people from 41 settlements, including over 42,000 residents of Seferihisar alone Authorities confirmed absence of fatalities, though dozens received treatment for smoke inhalation.
Airport Shutdown and Rippling Travel Disruptions
Smoke plumes forced a temporary closure of Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, grounding flights and triggering widespread delays. Operations halted on June 30, prompting re-routing to airports like Dalaman, Bodrum, Antalya, Denizli, and Edremit. Airlines including Pegasus, easyJet, and Jet2 assisted affected passengers with lodging and meals during disruptions. By July 1, airport operations had largely resumed, though some delays persisted.
Broader European Heatwave Context
Turkey’s wildfires are part of a larger, continent wide heatwave. France, Spain, Italy, Greece, and Germany are grappling with soaring temperatures and wildfires, particularly impacting regions like Crete and Halkidiki. Across Europe, red heat alerts, school closures, and health warnings have become commonplace .
Affected Areas and Current Travel Guidance
The wildfires remain localized, principally in Izmir, though smaller fires have emerged in Bilecik, Hatay, Sakarya, and Manisa. However, leading tourist destinations like Istanbul, Antalya, Bodrum, Cappadocia, and Dalaman continue to function normally. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) maintains its view that major tourist hotspots remain safe and has not issued a travel warning tied to the fires.
Precautions for Travelers
Authorities and media recommend these steps:
Travelers heading to Izmir should monitor AFAD updates, regional airport advisories, and local media.
Flights to/from Izmir may still face delays or rerouting to alternate airports.
Those in or near the fire zone should be prepared for evacuation notices and reduced air quality.
Travelers with respiratory conditions are advised to be cautious due to smoke.
Travel insurance plans generally cover flight disruptions but usually exclude cancellation for voluntary changes without official advisories.
Conclusion: Awareness Over Alarm
The wildfires in Izmir are a sobering reminder of how climate and environmental issues can impact even the most popular travel destinations. Still, they do not define the broader travel landscape in Turkey. With most tourist regions functioning normally, travelers can proceed with plans provided they remain vigilant and respectful of the safety measures in place. Turkey continues to welcome visitors, and with the right precautions, travel can be both safe and enjoyable even during challenging times.
Read more: Europe Melts: The Heat Wave That Shut the Eiffel Tower
