Fire
Deforestaion
Fire
Climate
Fire
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Turkey has been experiencing a significant increase in wildfire incidents, with the latest alert reported in Şanlıurfa on June 26, 2026. Over the past two decades, Turkey has witnessed a fluctuating pattern in tree cover loss, largely driven by forestry activities and wildfires. From 2001 to 2025, Turkey saw a total tree cover loss of approximately 385,030 hectares, accounting for nearly 3.80% of its total tree cover extent.
Forestry activities have been a major contributor to this loss, responsible for over 70% of the total tree cover reduction. Wildfires have also played a significant role, particularly in recent years, with 2021 marking a peak year where wildfires accounted for nearly 40% of the tree cover loss. Urbanization, although a smaller factor, has consistently contributed to tree cover reduction, averaging around 1,200 hectares annually.
Despite these losses, Turkey has managed to achieve a net gain in tree cover of approximately 88,767 hectares, reflecting a positive change of 0.65%. This gain is attributed to reforestation and natural regrowth efforts. However, the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires present a growing challenge, underscoring the need for effective forest management and fire prevention strategies.
The recent incident in Şanlıurfa serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by wildfires, highlighting the importance of continued vigilance and proactive measures to protect Turkey's forest resources. As Turkey navigates these challenges, the focus remains on balancing development with environmental sustainability to ensure the preservation of its natural landscapes.
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