Drone Footage Reveals Devastation After Massive Forest Fires in Bursa

The aftermath of massive wildfires in Gürsu and Harmancık, two districts in Turkey’s Bursa province, has been captured in haunting drone footage, laying bare the scale of destruction. Once lush green forests have now been reduced to charred, ashen wastelands, including one of the region’s most beloved recreational areas.

Gürsu’s Green Heart Turned to Ash

The fire in Gürsu, described as one of the worst forest disasters in the region’s history, has left behind a stark, blackened landscape. Particularly hard hit was the area surrounding Katırlı Mountain, where vibrant forests and natural beauty have been completely consumed by flames.

A key casualty of the blaze was the 80-acre recreational zone owned by Gürsu Municipality, located near İğdir Neighborhood. This area, once home to scenic terraces, a 150-seat restaurant, and inflatable balloon houses, now lies in ruins. It had been a favorite getaway for city residents.

While the fire has mostly been brought under control after four days of continuous effort, cooling operations in Gürsu and Kestel are still ongoing.

Harmancık Fires Rage into Day Four

Meanwhile, the Harmancık district continues its fourth straight day of battling blazes. Firefighting teams from neighboring provinces have joined in a round-the-clock aerial and ground response to contain the flames.

Though crews managed to control parts of the fire, intense afternoon winds (lodos) caused flare-ups, further damaging the forested terrain. Drone images from Harmancık show the heartbreaking extent of the damage across the hills and valleys.

Despite the adversity, firefighters remain relentless, working under extreme conditions to prevent the flames from spreading further.