Turkey: Fires Threaten Bursa, Evacuations and Casualties

Over 3,500 residents were urgently evacuated from their homes near Bursa due to forest fires raging for over 24 hours. Firefighters are battling the flames amidst strong winds and high temperatures.

Turkish Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, İbrahim Yumaklı, reported that 2,300 firefighters and rescuers are operating in the area with over 850 vehicles, six aircraft, and four helicopters. Sadly, one firefighter died from a heart attack, while three people were killed in an accident involving a water tanker.

Additionally, another fire in Karabük province forced over 1,800 people to leave their homes. Turkish authorities warn that the situation will remain critical due to heatwaves and drought.

Since the beginning of summer, over 3,000 fires have broken out in Turkey. Minister Yumaklı promised immediate reforestation initiatives.