Gaziantep

Gaziantep Subregion is consistently experiencing severe drought conditions due to lack of precipitation and above-average temperatures, which continue to grow every year [1] . The growing intensity and frequency of droughts places additional stress on agricultural production across the country, including the Gaziantep Subregion. the World Bank suggest that Turkey may become water-scarce by 2030, further threatening agricultural productivity and food security [2]. In addition, water supplies are poised to become more stressed in the near future due to a combination of factors, including changing weather conditions, growing population and population density, as well as industrialisation [3].

The Gaziantep Subregion is increasingly affected by heat stress and heatwaves, posing risks to both public health and the economy. Rising temperatures endanger vulnerable groups and reduce worker productivity [4]. Heatwaves have also significantly increased mortality rates in recent years [5]. Additionally, climate change threatens agricultural production, widening the rural-urban development gap [6]. This is especially concerning for Gaziantep, where agro-industries rely on key crops like pistachios, olives, almonds, pomegranates, and grains.