Emergency services in Turkey are battling fierce wildfires that have erupted near the city of Bursa, forcing the evacuation of multiple villages as flames spread rapidly through dry vegetation.
Authorities have deployed helicopters and ground crews to contain the blazes, which broke out in the Keles district, approximately 50km from Bursa. Strong winds and high temperatures have exacerbated the situation, creating challenging conditions for firefighters.
Mass Evacuations Underway
Local officials have ordered the evacuation of at least nine villages as a precautionary measure, with residents being moved to safer locations. No casualties have been reported so far, but the fires have already caused significant damage to agricultural land and forested areas.
Emergency Response Intensifies
Turkey's AFAD disaster management agency has mobilised additional resources to the region, including water-dropping aircraft. Health Minister Fahrettin Koca confirmed that emergency medical teams are on standby in case of injuries.
"Our teams are working tirelessly to bring these fires under control," said a spokesperson for the local governor's office. "We urge residents to follow evacuation orders and avoid returning to danger zones."
Climate Concerns Mount
The wildfires come amid a period of unusually high temperatures across southern Europe, with scientists warning that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of such events. Turkey experienced particularly devastating wildfires in 2021 that burned for weeks along its southern coast.
Meteorologists predict no immediate relief from the hot, dry conditions that have created tinderbox conditions across the region. Authorities have warned residents to avoid activities that could spark new blazes.
