Turkey and Cyprus face shifting weather patterns and El Niño risks

Meteorological forecasts for Turkey and Cyprus indicate significant weather shifts for the upcoming week. In Turkey, temperatures are expected to rise gradually across much of the country, reaching seasonal norms. However, heavy precipitation, thunderstorms, and potential risks of flooding, lightning, and hail are forecasted for several regions, particularly in Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia, including Malatya, Elazığ, and Adıyaman. Some areas may also experience strong winds and dust transport.

In Cyprus, Meteorologist Mediha Orun Sarp noted that while seasonal temperatures for the end of 2026 are expected to be near normal, the El Niño phenomenon could introduce volatility. If El Niño conditions intensify, the region may face higher temperatures, prolonged droughts, and sudden, intense rainfall events that could threaten infrastructure.

Regional variations include warming trends in Çanakkale and Muğla following recent rain, while Samsun and Kahramanmaraş face varying degrees of cloudiness and showers. Coastal areas in the Marmara and Aegean regions have been warned of strong winds, with wave heights potentially reaching 3.5 meters in the Black Sea.