Welcome to our pick of last week’s news from Fethiye and around Türkiye.
Curated from various news sources.
🧿 LOCAL NEWS
Sea Water Retreats 12 Meters in Akyaka, Raising Concerns
In the Akyaka neighbourhood of Ula district, sea water receded inland by 12 meters, an unusual phenomenon that drew the attention of locals. Residents captured the rare event using their mobile phones and video cameras, sharing their observations on social media.
The retreating water phenomenon has been occurring frequently along the Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines, particularly following a week-long earthquake storm near the Greek island of Santorini. Experts note that these water fluctuations happen at intervals throughout the day, with the sea eventually returning to normal levels. It is expected that such events may persist until the full moon period.
Expert Opinion: No Direct Link to Earthquakes
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ceyhun Özçelik, Director of the Geographic Information Systems Center and a faculty member at the Water Resources Department of Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, addressed public concerns, stating that there is no scientific evidence linking the earthquake storm near Santorini to the sea water retreat.
“There has been serious seismic activity in the south of the Aegean Sea for the past 10 days, and this activity is ongoing. People are naturally concerned about a potential connection between the sea retreat and earthquake or tsunami effects,” said Dr. Özçelik. “However, studies in the literature do not indicate a direct relationship between earthquakes and tides. While the intensity of an earthquake can generate tsunamic effects, low-intensity seismic activity can sometimes correlate with tidal movements.”
Dr. Özçelik further explained that tidal fluctuations occur due to the gravitational influence of the Moon, the Sun, and other celestial bodies, affecting not just water levels but also land masses. However, he reassured the public that there is currently no imminent risk of a tsunami or earthquake as a result of the recent sea retreats.
As the phenomenon continues to intrigue and concern locals, experts urge the public to remain informed through scientific explanations rather than speculation.
Source: https://www.fethiyetv.com/akyakada-deniz-suyu-12-metre-cekildi
Ancient King’s Road Re-Emerges in Bodrum as Sea Recedes
The historical city walls in the Gümüşlük neighbourhood of Bodrum, Muğla, stretching towards Tavşan Island, have resurfaced as the sea receded, revealing a significant archaeological treasure. The ancient stone-paved road, known as the ‘King’s Road,’ which provided access to the ancient city of Myndos 3,500 years ago, was captured in stunning drone footage.
The drop in sea level made the road more visible, drawing the interest of both local and international tourists visiting the region. Visitors eagerly explored the newly exposed path, walking in the footsteps of history and capturing memorable photos along the way. The opportunity to physically connect with the remnants of Myndos added to the region’s allure, enhancing its historical atmosphere.
A Route of Great Archaeological and Touristic Value
The King’s Road was once a crucial transportation route leading to the ancient city of Myndos, and today it stands as a valuable historical and touristic landmark. Experts emphasise the importance of increasing awareness and conservation efforts to ensure the protection and promotion of this ancient pathway.
Local visitor Müjdat Sungur, who has long been familiar with the area, noted the impact of the sea’s retreat: “I had a boat in this area, and I used to row around this island. It is not possible to do this now because the water has receded.”
As interest in the King’s Road grows, authorities and historians highlight the need for careful preservation efforts to maintain its integrity for future generations.
Source: https://www.gercekfethiye.com/gumusluk-te-3-bin-500-yillik-kral-yolu-gun-yuzune-cikti/92926/
Muğla Showcases Agricultural Strength at Fruit Logistica 2025 in Berlin
Muğla Metropolitan Municipality participated in Fruit Logistica 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious agricultural fairs, held in Berlin, Germany, from February 5-7. The event provided a platform to exhibit the fresh produce and local products of Muğla’s farmers, highlighting the region’s agricultural potential on an international stage.
The Muğla Metropolitan Municipality, in collaboration with the Muğla Chamber of Commerce and Industry, set up a stand showcasing a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, including oranges, grapefruits, tomatoes, and pomegranates, as well as cooperative-produced goods from the region. Visitors were also informed about the certified production processes used to ensure healthy, high-quality agricultural output, with detailed explanations of food analysis and quality control procedures.
The fair facilitated international cooperation meetings, where export opportunities for Muğla’s agricultural products were explored. Discussions were also held with representatives from the Turkish-German Businessmen’s Association and the Turkish Consulate, focusing on expanding Muğla’s global market presence.
Muğla Metropolitan Municipality Agricultural Services Department Head Buket Kallem described the fair as highly productive, stating:
“We had the opportunity to introduce our local products to a wider audience through international collaborations. Beyond promoting our produce, we also highlighted the quality standards we adhere to in production. Additionally, we engaged in key discussions with the Turkish-German Businessmen’s Association to expand our market share.”
Mayor Aras: “Muğla Should Be a Brand City in Agriculture Too”
Muğla Metropolitan Municipality Mayor and Coastal Aegean Municipalities Union President Ahmet Aras emphasized the significance of agricultural development alongside tourism, stating:
“Muğla should not only be known for tourism but also for its agricultural production and export potential. Participation in international fairs like Fruit Logistica is crucial for helping our producers access broader markets and ensuring the sustainability of local agriculture. These events allow us to promote our products, form strategic partnerships, and enhance export opportunities. As Muğla Metropolitan Municipality, we fully support such initiatives to strengthen our agricultural sector, increase the value of our products, and contribute to local economic development. Muğla must become a brand city in agriculture as well as in tourism.”
The participation in Fruit Logistica 2025 marks an important step in positioning Muğla as a key player in international agricultural markets, reinforcing its reputation for high-quality, sustainable production.
Source: https://www.muglaturk.com/haber/mugla-tarimi-fruit-logistica-berlin-fuarinda-tanitildi-13180.html
🧿 NEWS FROM AROUND TÜRKIYE
Birdwatchers explore Mersin’s seagull species in Mediterranean waters
Birdwatchers and photographers gathered in southern Türkiye’s Mersin for an event organized by the Turkish Society of Anonymous Birds (TRAKUS), where they set out by boat to photograph seagull species in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The event, aimed at documenting marine bird species, drew 40 participants from various regions of Türkiye. The group departed from the Fishermen’s Harbor in the country’s central Mediterranean district with their equipment, embarking on a boat trip across the Mediterranean Sea.
The team observed large flocks of seagulls up close as they navigated the blue waters of the Mediterranean.
Participants captured images of several types of seagulls during the event, including the “pirate gull,” “black-headed gull,” “silver-backed gull,” and “black-backed gull.”
Nature and wildlife photographer Alper Tüydeş shared with Anadolu Agency (AA) that the goal of the trip was to photograph different bird species. Focusing mainly on seagulls, Tüydeş said: “Bird photographers and birdwatchers came from all across Türkiye to this event. Mersin is especially valuable for birdwatching during the winter and spring transition periods. It hosts beautiful birds in this regard. This time, we went beyond that and took a trip out to sea.”
Güçlü Küsmez, who traveled from Çanakkale, expressed his happiness at having the chance to capture different species of seagulls during the excursion.
Source: Daily Sabah
Heavy snowfall forces school closures in over 20 Turkish cities
Amid the anticipated cold spell and snowfall, daily life across more than 20 provinces in Türkiye has come to a standstill, prompting authorities to suspend educational activities.
With temperatures plunging below seasonal norms, heavy snowfall has paralysed life in 25 cities, severing access to rural roads, while educational institutions in 23 provinces remained closed on Feb. 7.
In Istanbul, the snow and sleet that commenced on Jan. 5 continued intermittently, with northern districts bearing the brunt of the wintry onslaught.
While the city’s higher altitudes are blanketed in snow, meteorological projections indicate a transition to rainfall over the weekend.
In the neighbouring province of Kocaeli, authorities imposed a prohibition on scooters, motorcycles and delivery couriers from venturing onto the roads due to hazardous conditions.
Meanwhile, in Düzce, snowfall accumulated to a depth of 50 centimetres in elevated areas.
In Bartın, snow depth reached an imposing 80 centimeters in higher altitudes, while the city centre remained under a 20-centimerer layer of snow.
Reports indicated that over 1,000 village roads across the Black Sea region had become impassable.
In the interior highlands of the Eastern Black Sea and the precipitous slopes of Eastern Anatolia, a substantial avalanche risk loomed, prompting authorities to issue cautionary advisories.
In the southern province of Antalya, nighttime temperatures dipped below freezing, compelling local farmers to maintain vigilant nocturnal watch over their greenhouses. To safeguard their crops from frost damage, they meticulously oversee their produce throughout the night.
Source: Hürriyet Daily News
Why is Türkiye considering a social media limit for children?
Türkiye is considering a social media age limit, joining a global movement to protect children from the increasing risks associated with platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X.
Speaking at an event in Istanbul on Monday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stressed, “We cannot leave our children unattended in the chaotic climate of digital media,” and warned that screen addiction is “spreading like a plague.”
Days later, Family and Social Services Minister Mahinur Ozdemir Goktas stated that the age restrictions would be implemented in two phases: one for children under 13 and another for those aged 13 to 16.
Social media platforms operate on the principle of capturing attention, and algorithms are meticulously designed to maximise engagement.
You can read the full article here: https://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/why-is-turkiye-considering-a-social-media-limit-for-children-18261552
🧿 SPORT
Fethiyespor
Thank you to Brian Lloyd for the Fethiyespor update.
Match Results
Fethiyespor lost their away match against Batman Petrolspor on Saturday. The final score was 1-0.
Fethiyespor remain in 9th position in the league table.
League Matches
Wednesday 12 February at home against Altay S.K. The kick-off time is at 14:00.
Sunday 16 February away against Karaköprü Belediyespor. The kick-off time is at 14:00.
For more information about Fethiyespor please visit:
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Turkish Lira (TL) exchange rates
The British Pound bought 44.50 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 44.41 TL.
The US Dollar bought 35.88 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 35.81 TL.
The Euro bought 37.07 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 37.13 TL.
Source: exchangerates.org.uk
Weather Forecast
Here’s your weather forecast for the week ahead.
Source: Living Earth
