A devastating forest fire has been raging in the Aegean resort city of Izmir, Turkiye, for the third consecutive day, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of residents. The fire, which started on Thursday, has spread rapidly due to strong winds, affecting residential areas and forcing authorities to take swift action.
Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced that 900 residents in five affected districts were evacuated overnight, bringing the total number of evacuees to hundreds. The fire has already destroyed 16 homes, forced the evacuation of 87 houses and 45 businesses, and even led to the evacuation of an animal shelter.
Firefighters, planes, and helicopters are battling the flames, with 32 fire trucks, 11 water tankers, and five bulldozers deployed in the affected areas. Despite their efforts, the fire continues to rage, with around 1,600 hectares of land affected.
The cause of the fire is unknown, but scientists warn that climate change makes extreme weather events, including heatwaves, more likely, longer-lasting, and more intense. Turkiye has been experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius in some areas.
Agriculture and Forestry Ministry Ibrahim Yumakli reassured residents that they should not be “worried” as the situation is under control. However, the fire’s spread and intensity have raised concerns among locals and authorities.
Six other fires are still raging in forest areas across Turkiye, including in the northwestern Bolu and Aydin in the west. The country’s firefighting efforts are being supported by multiple agencies, with over 300 personnel actively involved.
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