Bosphorus Strait closed to maritime traffic in both directions due to fog
An aerial view shows fog covering the Bosphorus, as well as the Beykoz and Sariyer districts in Istanbul, Türkiye, on January 1, 2025. (AA Photo)
Maritime traffic through the Bosphorus Strait, also known as the Istanbul Strait, was suspended in both directions early Wednesday because of heavy fog, according to the Directorate General of Coastal Safety under Türkiye’s Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure.
In an official statement on its website, the authority announced that vessel movement was halted at 3:45 a.m. local time.
Dense fog was reported in the northern sections of the city, significantly reducing visibility.
The Bosphorus Strait, one of the world’s busiest maritime routes connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara and the Aegean and Mediterranean Sea, faced temporary closures in 2024 because of reduced visibility caused by fog or adverse weather conditions.
Authorities closely monitor the situation, and updates are expected as weather conditions improve.
