13.04.2026 10:00
Turkey is entering a dry and hot period after rainy days. Prof. Dr. Orhan Şen stated that rainfall will decrease and temperatures will rise due to the "Super El Niño" effect, issuing a critical warning about water conservation.
Meteorology Expert Prof. Dr. Orhan Şen warned that the rainy weather affecting Turkey will give way to a dry and hot period. Şen stated that rainfall during the summer months will be below normal levels and mentioned that the "Super El Nino" effect could be observed in the autumn and winter months.
RAINY DAYS ARE BEHIND US
ITU Faculty Member Prof. Dr. Orhan Şen shared evaluations regarding the upcoming months in a video message. He expressed that the heavy rainfall experienced in the past period is now behind us, saying, "It seems we will miss those days of abundant rain." Emphasizing that it is difficult to make precise predictions for May and the summer months, Şen stated that the general trend will be towards rainfall remaining below normal levels.
“SUPER EL NINO” WARNING
Pointing out the globally effective El Nino phenomenon, Şen indicated that a stronger process could occur this year. Noting that sea surface temperatures in the Eastern Pacific have started to rise, Şen said, "This year we expect a stronger El Nino, which we call 'Super El Nino.' Temperatures will rise in the summer months, and this effect will likely become more pronounced in the autumn and winter months."
Recalling that similar processes occurred in 1997-1998 and 2016, Şen emphasized that such events significantly change global rainfall regimes and meteorological balances.
TURKEY WILL BE AFFECTED TOO
Şen stated that the Super El Nino will change the amount and frequency of rainfall worldwide, and that Turkey will also be affected by this process. It is expected that temperatures will rise, and the risk of drought will increase, especially during the summer months.
“DO NOT RELY ON DAM LEVELS”
Prof. Dr. Şen drew attention to the fact that the current dam filling rates should not create a misleading sense of security. Despite the filling rate being 70% in Istanbul and 60% in Izmir, Şen emphasized that the risk persists, stating, "A drought that could occur for two consecutive years could bring these rates back to dangerous levels. Therefore, we must use our water carefully."
Experts indicate that both authorities and citizens should already increase water conservation measures against the potential risk of prolonged drought.