Turkey: Turkey has experienced its lowest rainfall in 52 years over the past 12 months, according to the national meteorological service, which has warned of worsening drought. Between October 1, 2024, and September 20, 2025, average precipitation measured 422.5 millimeters, about 26% below the long-term average, the service said on Wednesday.
According to Ghana News Agency, the south-eastern province of Mardin saw no rainfall at all in September, while the Marmara region, a key economic and tourism hub, suffered from moderate to severe drought over the Turkish summer. In several western provinces, including Bursa, authorities have begun rationing water as reservoirs run critically low. Some districts in Bursa, often referred to as the 'city of water,' now face daily 12-hour water cuts, local officials said.
Experts say the shortages stem not only from reduced rainfall, but also from chronic water mismanagement. Dursun Yildiz, head of the Water Policy Association, warned that the crisis reflects the lack of an integrated, basin-based water management system. Turkey's state broadcaster, TRT, reported that even drinking water reserves in the Bursa region are rapidly declining. The province, known for its natural springs, also exports bottled water to Europe, including Germany.
