Turkey bans forest access in Şırnak, Eskişehir and Afyonkarahisar until September

The Turkish Ministry of Forestry announced that, because of rising temperatures and an increased risk of wildfires, entry to all forest areas will be prohibited for a limited summer period. In Şırnak, the ban applies from 9 June 2026 through 30 September 2026, with a complete prohibition on picnics, campfires, fireworks, and the disposal of any material that could start a fire. Violations will be subject to administrative and criminal penalties under the Forest Law and the Turkish Penal Code.

Similar measures were adopted in the western provinces of Eskişehir and Afyonkarahisar. In Eskişehir, the restriction runs from 15 June to 15 October 2026, while Afyonkarahisar’s ban starts on 1 June and ends on 30 September 2026. Both regions will see heightened patrols by forest‑guard units and local police, and fines will be imposed on anyone who contravenes the rules.