The current wildfire situation in Turkey 🇹🇷 has multiple fires raging across the country, with the western regions being particularly affected:
Izmir Region:
Izmir has been significantly impacted, with reports confirming that the flames have reached residential areas. The city is engulfed in smoke, and despite the relentless efforts of firefighting aircraft, helicopters, and ground crews, strong winds up to 80 km/h are hampering containment efforts. Evacuations have been ordered in some urban districts, and there have been reports of damaged homes.
Other Affected Areas:
Wildfires are also burning in the provinces of Canakkale, Bolu, and Manisa. In Canakkale, the fires have endangered historical sites, including the Gallipoli battle site, where flames have reached Canterbury Cemetery, causing damage.
Efforts to Contain:
Turkey has deployed extensive resources, including dozens of aircraft, hundreds of vehicles, and thousands of personnel. However, the dry conditions, high temperatures, and strong winds are making the fires particularly difficult to control.
Historical Context:
Earlier this year, a severe wildfire in southeastern Turkey in June resulted in the deaths of at least 11 people, underscoring the recurring nature of wildfire issues in Turkey. Factors such as agricultural practices like stubble burning and extreme weather conditions often exacerbate these events.