Massive wildfires continue to rage across Turkey.
The most severe damage has been recorded in the western province of Izmir. The fire broke out on June 29 between the districts of Seferihisar and Menderes. Due to extreme heat and winds reaching speeds of up to 73 mph, the flames spread rapidly, reaching residential neighborhoods, resort areas, and the ruins of ancient Ephesus — one of the most famous archaeological sites in the country.
In the area near the city of Foça, homes and vehicles were destroyed, and over 550 people were evacuated.
In the city of Izmir, the fire jumped from the forest to a car dealership and an appliance warehouse — both the building and the vehicles were completely burned.
The fires disrupted operations at Adnan Menderes Airport, which was temporarily shut down, and flights were delayed for up to 21 hours.
Thousands of firefighters, aircraft, and specialized equipment were deployed to fight the flames, but by the fourth day, the fire was still not under control. Strong gusts of wind posed a danger to helicopters, and aerial firefighting had to be suspended multiple times.
Southern and southeastern provinces were also affected.
In Muğla Province, a forest fire broke out in the Ortakent area. Due to the threat of the flames spreading, a shopping center was evacuated. Thanks to the quick work of firefighters, the blaze was brought under control.
In Hatay, the fire approached residential homes in the village of Karaali. In Manisa, forests burned in the Akhisar area, with planes and helicopters deployed for firefighting.
Fires also broke out in the provinces of Adana, Antalya, Mardin, Aydın, Osmaniye, and Mersin, but they were quickly brought under control.
In just three days, more than 260 fires were recorded across the country.
Over 50,000 people were evacuated in Turkey due to the wildfires. 46 people were injured and hospitalized, one of them in serious condition.
Due to the abnormal heatwave sweeping across Europe, wildfires have also broken out this week in several other Mediterranean countries, including Italy and Spain.
Natural disasters are becoming more powerful and more frequent, so it’s not just rescuers who need to be prepared — each of us should be. Knowing how to act correctly in extreme situations can help save lives and protect our health.
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