Massive Wildfire in İzmir Forces Flight Suspensions as Wind Hampers Response

A large-scale forest fire broke out on Saturday afternoon in İzmir’s Menderes district, spreading rapidly between Kuyucak and Seferihisar Orhanlı due to strong winds and dry weather. Despite intense firefighting efforts, the blaze remains uncontrolled, prompting the temporary suspension of flights at Adnan Menderes Airport and the evacuation of nearby villages.

Air and Ground Crews Mobilized Against Wind-Fueled Blaze

The Turkish General Directorate of Forestry has deployed 18 aircraft, 10 helicopters, 40 fire trucks, 10 water tankers, and 4 bulldozers to the scene. A total of 687 personnel from emergency medical services, firefighting, police, and gendarmerie are engaged in the operation.

According to officials, wind gusts are severely limiting aerial operations. İzmir Governor Süleyman Elban confirmed that only two large aircraft can currently function effectively, making ground-based firefighting the primary method.

“We are unable to fully utilize aerial support due to strong winds. Our teams on the ground are working under extremely difficult conditions,” Elban stated.

Over 1,000 Personnel and 122 Fire Trucks Battling the Flames

Governor Elban added that more than 1,000 personnel, 122 fire trucks, 74 water tankers, and 84 heavy-duty vehicles are actively involved in the operation. So far, three villages have been evacuated, and no casualties have been reported.

“The fire is progressing fast due to wind and dry conditions. Containment is proving difficult,” he said.

Adnan Menderes Airport Halts All Flights

As of 4:00 p.m., Adnan Menderes International Airport suspended all inbound and outbound flights due to reduced visibility, fire proximity, and heavy aerial firefighting activity. Several domestic and international flights have been diverted to alternative airports, and flight operations are expected to resume once the fire is under control.

Local Communities on High Alert

With flames approaching residential zones, local residents are on edge. Roads in the affected areas have been temporarily closed, and firefighting teams remain on standby for potential further evacuations.

“No official evacuation order has been issued for central areas, but we are prepared for all scenarios,” authorities said.

Meteorological Warning Came Hours Before Outbreak

The Turkish State Meteorological Service had issued a storm warning earlier in the day. The fire began around 1:00 p.m. and quickly spread, fueled by gusty winds, highlighting how climate and environmental risks are escalating during summer months.