Forest Fires Surge in Türkiye: 342 Blazes Since Friday, Risk to Last Until October

As Türkiye grapples with an alarming surge in forest fires, Agriculture and Forestry Minister İbrahim Yumaklı has confirmed that 342 fires have ignited across the country since Friday, with active firefighting efforts still underway in six regions. The Hatay province, particularly Antakya, stands as the most critical zone due to unpredictable winds and extreme heat hampering containment strategies.

In his nationwide briefing, Yumaklı emphasized the scale and intensity of the current wildfire threat, comparing it to a “frontline war”. “We face a relentless enemy,” he remarked, underscoring how changing wind patterns constantly open up new fronts in the battle against flames. The minister also warned that due to persistent high temperatures and volatile conditions, Türkiye must remain on high alert until October 2025.

Updating on regional efforts, Yumaklı reported improved conditions in İzmir and confirmed that fires in Adana had been contained. In Manisa, heavy nighttime interventions led to stabilization, although areas like Akhisar remain challenged due to the blaze being trapped within a valley. However, Antakya continues to pose the highest risk due to fluctuating wind speed and direction, which disrupt firefighting logistics.

Calling for public responsibility, Yumaklı criticized careless behaviors that aggravate the situation. “Our teams are informing communities door-to-door,” he said, adding, “But we struggle against negligence—some people simply aren’t taking the risk seriously enough.”

With fire risk expected to intensify again starting tomorrow, the minister urged the public to avoid lighting fires in open spaces or discarding cigarette butts irresponsibly. “This isn’t just a government effort—it’s a shared national responsibility. Even a moment’s carelessness can spark a disaster,” Yumaklı stressed.