Turkey: Devastating Fires in Bursa Region

Scenes of devastation are unfolding in the Bursa province of northwestern Turkey, where an uncontrolled fire is raging.

The fire started on Saturday afternoon in the Kestel and Gürsu areas, quickly spreading due to strong winds and drought. Thousands of acres of forest land have been reduced to ashes, destroying a significant ecosystem.

The flames approached the Bursa–Ankara highway, disrupting traffic. Authorities evacuated the village of Karahıdır and nearby settlements. Explosions were reported in a quarry.

More than 1,300 people have been evacuated. Dozens of fire trucks and volunteers are trying to contain the fire. The government is investigating the causes, with initial estimates pointing to human negligence.