Dry and hot weather has led to wildfires breaking out across Turkey, prompting firefighters to tackle blazes in various regions. The fires, fuelled by dry conditions and strong winds, posed a threat to historic sites, including First World War memorials and graves at the Gallipoli battle site. Efforts by emergency crews have been ongoing, with fires reaching residential areas in places like Izmir, prompting evacuations as ash fell around communities.
In the north-western province of Turkey, near the Aegean Sea, Canterbury Cemetery saw scorched gravestones due to a fire that began from a spark from electricity lines. Additionally, in Gordes, in the Manisa Province, a fire has been burning for three days, leading to evacuations and severe damage to homes in the area. Firefighters in Bolu have been working tirelessly to extinguish another blaze, as Turkey has mobilised resources, including aircraft and personnel, to combat the wildfires.
Forestry minister Ibrahim Yumakli warned of an increased risk of wildfires over the weekend, urging citizens to refrain from lighting fires outdoors for the next 10 days. The General Directorate of Forestry highlighted a 70% higher risk of wildfires due to current weather conditions in western Turkey. The heightened alert comes following a recent wildfire in Greece that devastated a significant area. In June, wildfires in south-east Turkey resulted in fatalities and injuries, underscoring the dangers posed by such natural disasters.
With a call for public support and vigilance, authorities in Turkey are grappling with the challenging task of containing and extinguishing wildfires amidst unfavourable weather conditions. The relentless efforts of firefighters and emergency responders are crucial in safeguarding lives, homes, and cultural heritage sites threatened by the ongoing blazes.