Turkey: Major Wildfires Rage – Evacuations and Casualties

Four major wildfires are raging in Turkey, with strong winds causing flare-ups. Nineteen villages had to be evacuated in the Safranbolu area, and over 3,500 people were evacuated from the Bursa region, according to Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli.

In addition to Bursa, the Karabük region, near Safranbolu, and the Karamanmaras region have also been affected. One firefighter died of a heart attack, while three people were killed in a traffic accident related to firefighting operations. Ten forest rangers and volunteers lost their lives on Wednesday in Eskisehir.

Turkish authorities warn that the situation will remain critical until October. A heatwave with temperatures above 40°C has contributed to the spread of the fires. According to a UN report, 88% of Turkey's land is exposed to an increased risk of desertification.